Referrals?

Back in September 2023 I was having breathing issues so I scheduled an appointment with an asthma and allergy doctor. They booked me an appointment and I went in and they did breathing tests and allergy testing etc. prescribed me an inhaler and allergy medications. I paid my copays and now in April 2024 they are calling saying my Blue Care Network insurance needs a referral otherwise it won’t be covered. As bad as it is (I know) I don’t have a primary care doctor. I haven’t been to anything other than an urgent care in at least 6 years and I’ve never had anyone other than this allergist assess me for the breathing issue.

How do I go about getting a referral for something that I was seen for 7 months ago and also when I don’t have an established doctor? Why would they have not informed me of needing a referral before taking me in and running tests and charging me hundreds of dollars?

The receptionist/assistant who called me on the phone notifying me of this made it seem as if I should call my insurance provider to get a referral and said “they almost never deny one” but I know that’s not really how it works and I would assume I would need to call a doctor for a referral right?

Any help is appreciated.

submitted by /u/Diligent-Alfalfa-725
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