03-21-18
I went to this appointment knowing what my copay would be because I called my insurance company prior. I arrive and the office tells me different. I brought my son in there for an Autism evaluation. To be short and sweet, between my insurance company and myself, we paid $500 to be interviewed by a Doctor. No ADOS test was performed, just an interview. Things I already knew about my son. 4 months later and after calling about 4 different "856" numbers, being tossed between 6-8 different people on the phone I am STILL waiting for my refund check. This place is a joke.
On top of the financial mess I've been dealing with let me tell you a little about our visit. We first walk in to Dr. Gallo's office and he is completely covered in what looked to be dog hair. GROSS!!!! About 3 weeks after our visit, I had to call and ask for his report that was promised by Dr. Ralph Gallo that he would be sending over. I was told then I needed to fill our a records release form. Again, lack of communication and organization. I filled that out, received my report within the 30 days as promised. Letter was filled with typo's. Again, things written that I already knew about my child and on top of that he wrote in there that my son displays evidence of a (static) Encephalopathy. Which #1 was NOT brought to my attention at our visit, and #2 when I googled that term it shows that it's defined at "permanent or unchanging brain damage". Now how do you get that diagnosis from an interview and no brain scans.
I DO NOT RECOMMEND YOU SEND YOUR CHILD HERE. THERE ARE OTHER OPTIONS.
Worth the waiting list to be seen at CHOP. I recommend their developmental Doctor's over this institution. Chop gives you and your child's teacher/therapist separate questionnaire's to be filled out prior to your visit. Makes sense right. So when you arrive there is no wasted time.
Also if your child is 3 and over your county should have options for services if qualified. MCIU (For Montgomery) They did a free ADOS test and full elaborate evaluation for my son. Very pleased.
**UPDATE** 7-11-18
Still have not received my refund check. If the billing department is this disorganized; how do you think they are clinically?