Medicare and Costs

[Frigaloon]

Hello,
I've been trying to find an implant surgeon that accepts assignment from Medicare. All of the big name surgeons appear to be using the same process and don't appear to be satisfied with the costs that Medicare allows.

I was speaking with one well known surgeon and his office staff and they kept slowly introducing me to more un-reimbursable fees I would have to pay. Additionally, they would not be pinned downed to costs nor commit to anything billing with Medicare. They just sidestep all questions like that. I became worried that they would just bill the crap out of me and leave it up to me to get Medicare to pay and I eat the rest.

Are there any known urologist surgeons out there that will accept assignment from Medicare to keep costs within their allowable costs? If you used Medicare were the urologists staff working the billing process for you?
Thank you

[Onefizz]

I don't know where you are located, but the urological surgeon I used, Dr. James McBride (Colorado Springs, CO) that performed my implant surgery was successful in getting approval by my Medicare Advantage plan (at the time, Humana, now it is Aetna). I don't remember the exact out of pocket cost, however as I recall, it was under $1000. I tried pills, trimix injections, and a VED. These worked for a while, however once they failed, I learned that Medicare might cover the implant and Dr. Mc bride and his staff were able to get the approval. My only regret is that I did not get it done sooner. I just didn't think Medicare, and especially Medicare Advantage, would cover it.

No regrets now in getting implanted and my wife and I have a great love-life in all aspects! Would do it again if needed!

Best regards,

Onefizz