I'm in Florida and I see a migraine specialist in Ohio. I see her face-to-face once a year. I make my appt. and book my flight three months in advance in order to go when is best for my schedule.

This past Aug., they left me a message saying, very casually, the Dr. just adopted and could we reschedule?! I get the whole adoption process but it was no big deal that I was flying in from Florida.  Asking what my other options were, I agreed to see one of her nurses, who they said could do everything my Dr. could except do botox, which I don't get anyway. 

It was a good appt. - she seemed very knowledgeable considering I thought my Dr., the neurologist - was the "expert."  I was billed $135 for my visit with the nurse!  When I called billing, she said it has nothing to do with whether it's a nurse or a doctor - it's the extent of the visit i.e., were prescriptions written, how long I spoke with her, etc.  Then what's the point of seeing a neurologist?!  There's no set office visit charge.  My last appt. with my Dr. cost me $85.  And she even gave me 5 nerve block injections at that appt.! 

I'm very put back by this.  The billing lady also asked what the difference was - it's covered by insurance!  Well, guess what, it's not because I'm still paying on my deductible.  And besides, I ultimately DO pay when they take advantage like this b/c my insurance company just raises my rates!  It's just like seeing an attorney - they can charge you whatever they want to work your case and you have no idea what you're being charged until you get the bill!  I'm so angry about this but I feel captive because it's so hard to find a neuro that specializes in migraines.  But I think I need to really start looking elsewhere.  Has anyone else experienced this?