Surprise medical bill

Hello all. This is my first time posting on this subreddit so I’m hoping someone can help me here.

I just switched to a new doctor last month after moving across town and my previous doctor being a 40 minute drive away. The provider’s website stated they were in network with my insurance. I called and spoke to the insurance benefits person at the office who again confirmed the provider was in network with my insurance. When I showed up the day of my appointment I had to provide payment for my typical specialist copay ($60). I also provided a copy of my insurance card when I filled out my new patient paperwork a week in advanced through the patient portal. I also provided a copy of my card in person with my ID when I checked in for the appointment. I did not request any specific doctor. Just someone who took my insurance and had the soonest appointment.

A couple days later I got notice via my insurance website that my insurance denied the claim and I would owe the full fee from the doctor (approximately $700). I called the office to ask what happened and they stated again that I had seen an in network provider. They advised me to contact my insurance again give them the provider’s group number and tax ID. I did what they said and insurance stated that there was an in network provider at the location but I was seen by someone who was not in network.

A couple of days ago I got a bill from the doctors office for $700. I can’t help but feel like I was duped by my doctor and feel taken advantage of. I don’t understand why I should have to pay for an OON provider when I specifically asked to be scheduled with someone who accepted my insurance. At no point of the process was I notified that I would be scheduled with someone else and would have to pay completely out of pocket.

Is there any way I can go about disputing the charge from the doctor?

submitted by /u/carcar75
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