Lerman & Son

Scumbag in Whitecoat!

We were recommended for getting a leg cast with a external brace for my two year old son by Beverly Hills Orthopedic Group - Dr. Alter. On coming here, we were asked for a credit card as collateral. The bill would be sent to insurance; by looking up the right codes and discussing the case further.

The scumbag, Mr. Lerman told us that we have a high deductible and that our insurance may not cover this kind of brace anyway, however they will pursue to claim via insurance, but since we looked like honest people, he would give us a 50% discount over $900.

We checked with our insurance; it turns out we DO NOT have a deductible for a minor and this is 100% covered. On calling back they assured that it has been sent but could be delayed upto three months.

Now they are telling me that they have NOT submitted it as they do not have a prescription on file and have requested Dr. Alter for faxing it over.

About the cast itself - we requested to use the water proof lining instead of the cotton. Mr. Lerman said the water proof lining is known to cause severe skin complications and is a health hazard, and whoever uses it is an extortionist.

He told us if the baby complains pain either around his ankle or the brace, he will gladly recast for FREE. My two year old ain't that smart to tell that the ankle inside a rigid and heavy cast hurts. My son is in pain from a broken femur. The two year old is only saying two syllables at the moment, and "hurt" has three.

Blatant attempt to rip me off. Three calls, plus I went in person. Presented the insurance claim which stated clearly I was due a refund. They still refused to refund what they owed me until I got the insurance carrier on the phone. Also they bill $600 for orthotics that are custom made in running stores for $70-$120. Wow. Rude too, once they were caught. No apology. No explanation. They were mad at ME. I am informing my insurance carrier and the MD who referred me.