Kaiser Permanente Insurance Reviews
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About Kaiser Permanente Insurance
- Quality of care from medical staff
- Convenient access to multiple services
- Affordable prescription prices
- Ability to choose healthcare providers
- Long wait times for appointments
- Communication issues with staff
- Billing discrepancies
Kaiser Permanente Insurance Reviews
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Reviewed Aug. 30, 2009
I went in for a Pap, and got bad results a week later saying I needed a biopsy. I had an appointment for 3 weeks later. The day before my appointment, Kaiser called me to cancel my appointment because the doctor was not going to be there. Another appointment was made and I had to now wait another 3 weeks. A few days passed when I realized that I would be on my period and you can't be on your period for a biopsy on your cervix. The first time my appointment was made, the Kaiser operator informed me about my period. When Kaiser called to reschedule, the operator forgot to inform me about my period and I was just thinking about getting the next available appointment. When I called back a few days later to let Kaiser know that I will be on my period and if they can make it for a week later, they told me they had nothing available and that I would now be waiting a total of over 2 months for my biopsy. Come on! I might have cancer and Kaiser wants me to wait 2 months to find out for sure. I put in a complaint, cried to everyone with no luck. They would not even give me a referral. I'm going crazy wondering what the heck is wrong with me and they are making me wait that long to find out?! That is so evil.
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2009
On approximately August 4, 2009, I phoned the Kaiser Permanente hospital operator and asked the operator how much will it cost me to see a doctor to write a letter for my new employer. The operator did not tell me how much it cost. I then made an appointment on Thursday afternoon, August 19. On Thursday afternoon, August 19, 2009, I went to the Kaiser Permanente hospital to see my doctor. First, I paid one hundred dollars for registration fee. A nurse checked my temperature, height, and weight. In addition, the nurse told me that she would give me a free immunization shot. Later, I met with Doctor ** at her office. She asked me health questions. I then told her that I am a normal person and I had no health problems at all.
Today, I just wanted her to write a letter for my new employer. After Doctor ** routinely checked my eyes, ears, and body, she told me to take a urine and blood test before she could write a letter for me. And I did. Yesterday, I received a three hundred and thirty dollar bill from Kaiser Permanente. I was frustrated and upset. It is only cost $85.00 at any clinic to see a doctor to write a letter. There was no prescription, no operation, and no medication for me. There were some procedures unnecessary for me when I saw the doctor. Why did Kaiser Permanente hospital charge me $430.00?
Today, I then called several Kaiser Permanente hospital phone numbers regarding overcharge on my bill. This morning, I spoke with Ms. ** at 510-752-6110. She said that the bill was correct. She could not help me to fix the bill problem. I totally believe that it was a scam and that the Kaiser Permanente hospital overcharged me. I am requesting the government to investigate this scam and correct the bill problem.
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2009
I'm sorry that I have to turn in a complaint with Kaiser. I have been so satisfied and happy for all my years with Kaiser (26 years). Today is for the first time ever, having to be going through so many trials/crises in my family. My son is in jail going through trial and my mother had a stroke and is paralyzed with voice permanently gone. Taking time off work for different matters, there comes a point that you too need to take care of your health conditions. So, for about the past 2 weeks I have been experiencing numbness on my left hand but just last night I felt them on both.
I went on the internet to inquire what it can be and it's really hard to tell because it could be anything but it also can be serious so it says to contact your doctor. I work with the Sheriff's Department and yes, I type all day every day but it doesn't mean otherwise. I was told that I had to be put on the list to see my primary doctor but I requested to see any other doctor available, but I was given attitude by one of the unknown clerks, then transferred to another clerk and then a supervisor for an appointment. I was told they had an available appt. on the same day. I can't drop everything and just leave. I had been taking off for other serious matters. All I needed was enough time to give my supervisor a notice, just like everyone else in other companies.
I love Kaiser's services but I hope that I don't run across this problem ever again with Kaiser. Again, I am sorry but my health comes first and they are there to serve. I don't need to have anyone else stress me when I'm going through a tremendous family crisis. Thank you.
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2009
Around May 26, I received a phone call, scheduled a follow-up on previous exam. My husband, Perry, was told it would be a procedure. It was not mentioned it was related to laboratory process. She did not explain what Colposcopy was. June 01, because of previous billing experience with Kaiser, Perry called in to ask how much would the procedure be in exact amount (that meant the entire charge of the service). The person who took the phone call was not able to answer by reading the computer. Then she asked somebody else, and that person told her how to check, and then she told Perry the charge would be $30 (she did not mention that was co-pay only).
She did not mention there were laboratory fees involved (this is the first malpractice: not enough information conveyed to patient). That $30 she said would be an oral contract for charges on the service provided to me. No additional fees should be charged. June 02, I went to Kaiser at Walnut Creek to complete the procedure. When I left, the cashier wanted to charge $40. I told her my husband said it should be $30. Then she conceded; I paid $30 (this is the second malpractice: staff was not clear on the charges).
June 28, I received a bill dated June 24, 2009 of the amount $585. June 30, my husband logged a complaint in Kaiser’s website. July 2, my husband received a phone call from Kaiser asking for detailed information. During the conversation, my husband complained that the $585 was outrageous and the $30 was not a reasonable estimate of the service charge. Then the woman responded that we should call another phone number for a better estimate. We were never informed that there was such a phone number we could call (this is the third malpractice: information hidden from patients). July 08, I received another bill dated June 25, 2009 of the amount $217. July 10, signed statement of authorized representative, faxed to Kaiser. July 31, I received a letter dated July 28, 2009 saying the complaint was rejected.
My complaint concerns the billing of $802. That $30 the staff said would be an oral contract for charges on the service provided to me. No addition fees should be charged. To solve the problem, I would like you to waive the charges because of your inaccurate estimate on your services and unprofessional management as a reputed health service provider. If you would tell me it cost $802 before the procedure, I would not even come to receive it.
In addition, when the procedure was completed and I paid $30, the entire transaction was considered over. Kaiser should not assume I have extra $802 to spare. The $30 estimate that my husband was told was far from a good estimate. In my opinion, Kaiser, under a very unprofessional management, caused all this trouble and should be responsible for its own mistakes.
Reviewed July 7, 2009
I am writing this because I think everyone should know how horrible Kaiser is. My daughter fractured her ankle on July 1st. We had to take her to a Kaiser contracted hospital. They set her in a splint and said for us to follow up with Kaiser for an orthopedic appointment. I took her to a pediatric doctor the next day and they said that they would put in a referral to orthopedic and that it would take at least 8 days to get in. That night, we had to take her back to urgent care. They X-rayed her again and failed to tell us where her fracture was located.
I called Friday, the 3rd, and again on July 5th to see if they can get her in sooner. They told us no because of the swelling. I told them that the swelling was down. They said go to the ER. So once again, we went back to the ER. They advised me that her ankle was fractured on both sides and that an orthopedic will be calling me with a sooner appointment, which they did not. Mind you, I have filed a complaint with them and was advised that someone would call me that day to discuss my complaint. What a shock, they didn't. Meanwhile, she might need surgery to set it right. All this trouble because they failed at everything.
Reviewed June 23, 2009
I had an appointment for 4:40 PM today and I was 10 minutes late. They wouldn't accommodate me when I was supposed to have some tests done. The doctor was also late, but now, I have to wait until August to get another appointment. I can't take off from work because I have to pay bills. I am happy that I have a job but I am very disappointed because I drove all the way to get there. They just made me upset--when I already have a high blood pressure.
Reviewed June 5, 2009
I went to my OB/GYN complaining about ongoing irritability, anxiety, and depression. The doctor asked me if I wanted a birth control prescribed to me each time I went. I told him "no" and that I wanted medication to treat anxiety and depression, not birth control. He seemed baffled as to why I would be coming to him with my problem and asked me this. I got a referral to see Pauline **, which I believed was a psychiatrist. She was not a psychiatrist but a social worker and this appointment was supposed to be an assessment and this made me very upset and I became anxious and had to leave. I was never referred to anyone. A few months later I had such a bad episode with my anxiety and the depression grew that the only recourse I had was to go to the emergency room. The emergency doctor prescribed two medications, which I used in good faith for a few months but noticed no significant change. I wrote my MD stating the lack of effects of the medication and she told me that both of those meds were supposed to be a temporary fix and that I would probably need something more.
I was told to call Kaiser Psych and when I did I was told that I would have to have a triage nurse call me back to assess the situation. No one called me back that day, so I called back and they told me that I had to go through Pauline ** again. So I left a message with her to no avail. The next day a triage nurse called me and told me that I was to talk with her. I was confused and told her that was not what they told me yesterday but that I talked with Pauline **.
I feel like this company/insurance does not care at all about the mental well-being of their patients. I have been seeking help for 10 months from my insurer with no response. I am making an appointment to see someone else outside of my insurance as I have no faith that I will ever get to see someone within this insurance company. Is there anything I can do for all these problems with Kaiser?
Reviewed May 13, 2009
Reviewed May 12, 2009
Reviewed April 22, 2009
Well, my story goes as follows: I was a visiting researcher for a university. I had Kaiser Permanente (it means king for always - maybe it refers to the doctors there). I had my last echocardiogram control (results were perfect) scheduled on 8 October, but my contract ended, as I found later on 30 September. Nobody told me then that they will charge me any money, so they did, like one month after the exam - $860 for 15 minutes of consultation. It is outrageous. When I called them to complain, they hung up on me. I mean, seriously, these guys are all for the money, it seems. I paid them and hopefully, I will never hear their name again.
Reviewed April 21, 2009
On November 22, 2008, I was attacked by an armed burglar while in my home. He beat me while I tried to escape. After talking to the police, I decided to go to the nearest Emergency Room to be seen just to make sure I was alright. I went to the ER at Kaiser in Richmond, CA because my husband had insurance with Kaiser through his employer. Upon registering, I was told that the cost of the visit was $180. I began crying because I felt I should not have to pay so much after paying monthly dues and being the victim of a crime. The woman at the front desk told me that I did not have to pay the amount right then if I didn't want to (but she told me not to mention that she had informed me of this right). I thanked her and asked to be billed.
I waited to be seen in the waiting room. I was called in by the nurse, told to wait for the doctor. I waited about 5 min., and the doctor came in. He asked me what had happened and then examined me for about 10-15 min. after which he decided I was fine, but that my neck and face might begin to hurt later since I was still in shock. He prescribed me Vicodin and Ibuprofen and I paid for these at the pharmacy.
I never received a bill until January 2009 and I am now being billed in the amount of $720 ($530 being paid by insurance). This makes the total for my 15 minute check-up, $1250 (and I cried when I thought I had to pay $180)! I called in January regarding the first bill, and was told that there had been a huge billing error on services rendered between November 18-30, 2008. I was told that a supervisor would contact me or my mother (since I had moved abroad in December). No one ever called and this week, my mother informed me that the same bill arrived again. I called today and spoke with Marie at the 800 number I gave above.
Marie explained that it was no mistake, that the cost of my visit to the ER that day was $1250, of which I am responsible for $720. She said there is a $180 deposit for being seen and that the rest is for the cost of lab tests, x-rays, etc. I told her this was excessive and ridiculous, especially since I am insured, am the victim of a crime, and I never received any lab tests, X-rays, blood transfusions, IVs, nothing, just 15 minutes with a doctor. She told me she would file a complaint on my behalf stating that I thought the charges are excessive for the services I actually used that day in 15 minutes.
I have no idea how to confront this situation, but I feel I am being robbed. I left the US and moved to Spain in order to avoid this sort of health insurance fiasco. The irony is that one month before leaving, I was attacked and, as the victim of crime, I have no right to emergency room services even after having paid for health insurance. The U.S. health care system is inhumane and Kaiser Permanente is robbing people by creating excessively high bills for their services without properly informing patients in advance.
Reviewed April 8, 2009
I did the online quit-smoking plan and then requested an Rx for patches & gum from Dr. **. Her office called me last week saying the Rx was at Davis Pharmacy but I had to bring in my certificate that I took the class. I took it in yesterday and Joel told me there was no Rx from the doctor. Like they called and told me there was but I showed him my 9-page plan from online anyway. Today, I called again to the doctor for the Rx that should've been there as stated. Now they are telling me I need to go back into the pharmacy with my certificate.
I called and they even talked to Joel who still says they need to see it again. I have spent a total of 5 phone calls and 1.5 hours on the phone & gas & time in the rain to drive there once. They need to mail me my Rx as I have requested. Why doesn't Kaiser know that I took their class on their website and why don't they have the Rx there when they called me to say they do? And why should I have to go back when I already went and waited in a long line yesterday and due to their mistake, I am supposed to continue being put out? And why do they all keep telling me to bring in my certificate which was confusing to a patient, when they should call it the "multiple-page quit-smoking plan"?
All of these were a huge inconvenience on my day and time and a lot of undue stress by the very crew that should be my support. I don't want some lame response telling me to go in again. I want my Rx mailed to me now for all I have been through and for doing my part already! It is time for Kaiser to do their part!
Reviewed April 1, 2009
I write to file a complaint on Kaiser Permanente's billing service. I enrolled in Kaiser's health care plan until the end of September 2008. Here are all the incidents that I complain of on their service:
I have enrolled in Kaiser's health care service since Jan 2008. Then my husband covered us (my son and me) under his employer's insurance starting October 2008. In August 2008, I called Kaiser and told them to terminate my service in October 2008 and they said they would do that. But then after October 2008, I received bills for October 2008 and then also other statements to collect the fee. I sent them letters. None was processed.
In June, my son received medical service in Swedish Family Medicine (SFM) located in Seattle. Then I was billed by Kaiser the amount of $165 because SFM charged Kaiser $165. I sent a check to Kaiser. But then even after a few months, SFM billed me. Obviously, Kaiser did not pay SFM. Then months after June, Kaiser sent me a letter saying I only have to pay $143 because $22 is covered by my medical plan. So Kaiser owed me $22. I sent 2 letters to Kaiser customer service to settle this. I got no reply but bills.
I still got a bill from SFM dated Jan 18. 2009 and a bill from USCB (a collecting agent) for a balance of $24. I am not sure how $24 came up but I consider this a harassment that Kaiser initiated. I condemn Kaiser for all its irresponsible doing and harassment to me, and disclosing my personal information to a collecting agent.
In February, I received a letter from Kaiser saying the case is followed up by some representative from Kaiser. Then I corresponded with him, trying to resolve the matter. He went back to me saying Swedish Family got my money and said this case could be closed. Then I called Swedish - they said Kaiser still kept the money. Then I faxed the guy in Kaiser asking him not to close the case, and also my money back. He had never responded after that.
Reviewed March 28, 2009
Reviewed March 16, 2009
Reviewed March 16, 2009
Reviewed March 15, 2009
Reviewed March 10, 2009
Reviewed March 1, 2009
Reviewed Feb. 27, 2009
Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009
Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009
Reviewed Jan. 15, 2009
Reviewed Jan. 13, 2009
Reviewed Jan. 3, 2009
Recently, Jan. 1, 2009, I was riding my horse when it slipped and fell on me causing massive injuries to my left knee, a head injury, and shoulder injury. Kaiser was only open in the after hours clinic. I had my husband carry me to the car and bring me there. Anyway, I hopped into the clinic and had to wait for about 20 minutes. I was then made to hop over to the patient room. I was dizzy and in pain. Then a Physician's Assistant named Joy ** came in. She did not ask any questions about the fall, my head, my shoulder, and the most painful of all, my knee. "1100 lbs had fallen directly on my knee and hyperextended it," I told her. The PA began grabbing my knee and forcefully trying to extend my leg. I screamed out in pain twice begging her to stop. She left the room and did not say anything. I was then met by a nurse assistant who put me in a wheelchair and sent me to X-ray.
No Xrays or any attention to my shoulder or head were taken. It was like they dismissed my other injuries and did not want to pay for the extra film. My X-ray technician, after she was done, wheeled me to the X-ray waiting room and just left me there in the public. I was feeling faint, in pain and left there to fend for myself. I had to call for my husband (who was taking care of my 20-month-old) to bring me back to the PA's office. Once back in Joy's office, I waited another 30 minutes, when I finally hopped out and asked what was going on. I was told to get back in the room and someone will be with me shortly. Then a nurse's assistant came in about 15 minutes later with a brace and demanded that I straighten my knee. I told her that the pain was too intense and straightening my knee was an impossibility.
She left the room without saying anything. I waited another 15 minutes until I opened the door and asked what was going on. I ran into Joy who then yelled out in the doctor's office that if I couldn't straighten my leg, that I couldn't be helped. I hopped out of the doctor's office without being given crutches, no examination of my head, no examination of my shoulder. I repeatedly told the PA that my horse had fallen on me. She did not care and in mid-sentence, told she knew that! I tried contacting Kaiser to see a specialist for my knee. I was then blown off and told that the next appointment was in 10 days.
Here I sit with massive injuries to my knee, a concussion, and a bruised and maybe dislocated shoulder and no matter what I said to the nurse or the PA, they would not listen or treat my injuries. I need help and I don't know how to get Kaiser's attention. I pay Kaiser every month. They should give proper medical care to someone with injuries.
Reviewed Dec. 1, 2008
Reviewed Nov. 11, 2008
Reviewed Oct. 9, 2008
I went to Kaiser Occ Med because of a pinched nerve that burned across my right buttock and down my right leg. I was directed to dr. ** where he got frustrated with my injury and proceeded to treat me as a fraud, and came short of calling me a junkie and a drug dealer, because the meds I was given didn't work.
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2008
I came in with an early miscarriage. As you can imagine, it was a fairly unpleasant experience in itself. However, I can thank the wonderful professionals at the lab for aiding in the stress of my ordeal. Apparently these caring individuals were too busy sharing stories to regard the doctor's orders to have me tested for the pregnancy hormone - my main reason for coming in. I can credit them with remembering run the test which determines what blood type I have. As helpful as it was for them to tell me something I already knew - that I am blood type A - I am more than slightly upset.
As I laid there having blood drawn, I could hear the other associates' loud personal conversations. I don't normally care about places being professional, but when you're having anything medically related done, you would like to feel some level of competency and professionalism. I did, however, receive an extremely sore arm for the next two days. My arm now has a nice quarter-sized bruise with two ugly marks where blood has come to the surface. I've had blood drawn and given blood several times. Yet I have NEVER had any type of mark like this. So in conclusion, I have to come back today and hope the talent working tonight can muster up the cognitive ability to test for WHAT'S ON THE PAPER RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM...and likely bruise my OTHER arm in the process.
They also have asked me to come in - due to this error - again in two days. My guess is that they will have to draw blood on my hand by then. So maybe this weekend I'll look like a convincing junkie, with nasty marks all over. Thanks Kaiser. Yet again, you have really stepped up to the plate to serve your community. I think it should also be mentioned that on my lunch break at work today I drove past a Kaiser facility with a man holding a sign saying "Kaiser won't cover my child's special needs."
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2008
Since we have Kaiser, nothing is going smooth anymore. At the beginning I had Depo (Birth-Controll) We just switched to Kaiser when I went to get my Shot. I had to run to different places, incl. a pregnancy test, before 1 day and endless visits to previous doctors, phonecalls. I could not believe it.
Then came June 2006. My Colitis started to hurt. I knew it is infected again. I went to the nurse treatment. The lady start yelling at me that I have to call and make an appointment. There is nothing they can do right now. I said I am in pain and want help right now. She repeated I should have called. Which I know by now, when you call you have luck to get a call back the same day! At least a Doctor Mrs. Wendy M. W. came by. She did not listen to what I told her. She insisted I have STD. I can't remember how many times I told her that can't be. At the end she got really mad, because she is the doctor and knows everything better. I wrote several letters and had endless calls with KP Member service. I never heard back.
March 2007. Because of previous problems with Endomitrioses my OB-GYN refered to a Labrarscopy. We had this done at Interstate KP. 3 days later my husband brought me to Emergency KP at Sunnyside. I had the biggest problems breathing. I had many Labrarscopies done before and never any problems. From this time on, for over 1 year I could not smell or taste. It was like my Nasalstreets got turned off. I saw a ENT Specialist, but they couldn't find anything. Lots of problems with copay for this one. After 3 letters they finally accepted the reg. $20.00.
May 2008. We just moved. Middle of April I got a cold. That is what I thought. After 3 weeks it still was there. I called KP at Sunset. I got an appointment for 1 week later. Big problems, because I used to go to Beaverton. Now where we live in Hillsboro I want to go to the nearest one.
Dr. Brian R. visited with me for about 3 minutes. I told me that is typically Allergies. He prescribed me a few things and I should be up and running. Over the weekend it got worse. I called back on Monday and got in for Tuesdays. I saw Dr. Jeffrey S.. Also a 4 minute visit and he said I have a bronchitis. He prescribed Predneson. But even that did not do it. I was frustrated and thought it may be go away by itself. I even researched Indoor Air testing, in believe it has some to do with the new house.
August 2008. On August 4th I saw Dr S. again for another reason and told him I still have the cough and snut. He gave me Atrovent 4x 2 puffs a day. Maybe an X-Ray in about 4 weeks. On August 12th I called for an appointment the same day to get a Antibiotics. I was coughing all night long. I got a 1.50pm appointment with Dr. G. All of a sudden I had difficulties breathing. The right side around my chest hurt. I thought from last nights coughing I might have pulled a muscle or so. But it got so bad, that breathing was very difficult. I got the chills and drove around 12.30pm to KP Sunset. There I finally got Blood tested and an X-Ray from my chest. The result? Pneumonia.
Not one of the doctors before looked in my throat, even so I mentioned plenty of times my throat feels dry, scratchy and irritated. My voice is horse. Does the patient have to tell the doctors there every little step like with a little kid? They call themselves professionals? I want to see that. Most of them can't understand English. Why can they not listen to their patients? For one thing many appointments and every time the copay. To me and others it seems like the money is more important then the patients health.
How can they stay in this world? Other companies with misleading treatment would be long time ago kicked out from this society. Why not KP? Look online and you find nothing but complaints, mistreatment, death etc. about Kaiser. What else does it take? Where is the Board?
I am sicker then ever in my life. Emotional Stress, no trust against any doctor,
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2008
Nurse practioner allowing a diabetic patient to live with a HbA1c >9 and refusing to call in an endocrinologist, or following the recommendations of clinical pharmacist.
This will increase the chance for the patient to suffer sequela that could be lessened or delayed.
Reviewed July 29, 2008
Dr. W advised me (via e-mail) to come in for bloodwork, and to schedule a Health Assessment Exam. My plan provides preventive care services with no co-pay. I went for bloodwork, then called and scheduled a Health Assessment Exam. I showed up for my Health Assessment Exam -- consisting of a review of my medical history, checking my ears and throat, listening to my heart/lungs, poked/prodded, prostate exam, review of my medications, and discussing miscellaneous medical concerns. Also a reeview of my lab results. Everything one would expect from a Health Assessment Exam.
However, since my bloodwork results were reviewed, the doctor classified this visit as a 'Follow-Up' (which just so happens to require a co-pay.) Grievance was filed with Kaiser, and denied. Complaint filed with the Insurance Administration was also denied, due to a review of the doctor's notes, which conveniently excluded information other than a review of the bloodwork and current medical conditions. The fact that the doctor advised me, in clear black and white, to schedule a HEALTH ASSESSMENT EXAM was considered irrelevant by Kaiser.
Reviewed July 1, 2008
I was prescribed an antibiotic by a nurse for a bladder infection and started it on a Friday. By Monday I had a fever, chills, and a pounding headache that could not be relieved by any type of pain reliever (advil, tylenol). I call the clinic and my nurse practitioner just tells me to keep taking the antibiotic. Tuesday-went to ER, given different antibiotic although tests showed my infection were already gone.
Wednesday- conditions worsening, I had fever, chills, pounding headache, shaking. I'm told to continue with the antibiotic. Thursday- Hives along with all the other conditions. Eventually a different nurse practitioner finally told me to come in and see her after days in hell. They did a test to see if I had meningitis. And one doctor finally could see that gee- I was having an allergic reaction to the medication that my nurse practitioner had kept telling me to keep taking. I was in tears on the phone when the nurse would tell me this. This was one of the most horrible experiences of my life!
I ended up in the Kaiser hospital and a $600 bill. Along with 2 weeks missed from work and a recovery time of several months. I switched to Providence Health Plan as soon as I was able too. Also my supervisor at the time wanted me to call an hour before my shift (5am) to call in sick and I couldn't even crawl out of bed!
Reviewed May 19, 2008
Kaiser has been consistently slow in booking appointments for me to see a doctor, to continue my medication. They essentially fail at every aspect of medical care that you can think of. the only thing they do do is to send a bag to me each year and ask for a stool sample when I have never had any related problems there.
I pay close to ten thousand a year thru my employer for kaiser coverage and I can't believe I can only get a bag for a stool sample for that.
Reviewed May 8, 2008
My complaint is Cardiologiest of Kaiser Permenante in Hawaii and San Bernardino. Dr. Paul of Kaiser-Hawaii ignored my condition. A speculations Rhuematic Fever when I was young has caused my heart's Mitral Valve to malfuntion on 08/25/2005. An operation (11/08/2005) of replacement with machanical valve was done with a Maze procedure to help decrease Atrial Fibulation was prescribed by Dr. Paul. After the operation, Dr. failed to monitor my medications and assigned a nurse practioner to take over my condition and medication only to be accuessed of Non complient of Medication by the nurse practioner which was not true.
I continued to take medication that was prescribed to me after my operation without a Cardiologist monitoring my heart medications. My condition continued to deterrate I am still unable to hold a sustainable employment. I moved to California and suffered repeated Emergency Room visits with Chest Pains and difficultly breathing, Request of medical records from Dr. left the Doctors in California wondering why I was in the Emergency Room. I felt black balled Another incident in California, I did not mention Dr....in fear of another black balled incident.
And I was admitted to the hospital and an Ultrasound test, EKG, X-ray, and another test was done with me laying down and a lot of banging noises. Test results stated that I had Congestive Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension due to an enlarged left side of my heart and two valves are leaking, one valve leakes more than the other. The mechanical Mitral valve however works great. I finally understood my condition. This is why I start to cough liquid when I walk fast or walk far distance or doing any kind of hard physical activities.
The Cardiologist of St. Bernadine Medical Center in San Bernardino, California, that night monitoring my condition explained in detail what was going on with my condition. Until, the follow-up visit, with the same cardiology doctor. He stated that there is nothing wrong with me...and that the Mitral valve that was fixed is fixed and I have no other problems. I asked about his statement to me in the hospital of the leaking valves and the enlarged left side of my heart. He stated that there is nothing wrong with my heart. It is my lungs, that I have pulmonary hypertension. He refered me to a pulmonary specialist and this pulmonary doctor said that the reason for back flow of liquid into the lungs is because of the Aitral Fibulation and the leaking valves of the heart, cause the fluids to back-up into the lungs.
I believe that Dr. Paul and the cardiologist doctor spoke about my condition thus changing his comments of test results. I asked for test results and from what I could read and understand, increased size and leaking valves. I don't know any more, but I feel something is diffenently wrong.
I am in Hawaii again and requested another doctor besides Dr Paul. The doctor I got with Kaiser Medical Center a Cardiologist Dr. S., said I don't have Congestive Heart Failure and I don't have Pulmonary Hypertension with out looking through my medical records...He even attempted to stop my Coreg a major heart medication. I mentioned to him that I have Atrial Fibulation and that the Coreg helps to control my heart rate. Only then he goes to the computer and scrolls a while to read my history. He leaves the room without a proper medical exam. I am confused and litteraly very sick.
Please, my question is, could it be my medical plan on Med-Quest / Welfare Medical that such crappy services and treatment to a very sick mother of 10 children and age 42 when diagnosed of Mitral Valve replacement...Now I am 44 with a birthday on Mothers Day, I will be 45 years old. I am blessed to live long enough to know I have a grandson, my first grandchild. I have yet to hold and hear him cry. I respect the medical profession, I hate to point out other peoples problems but, When I am sick...I go to the doctor with trust and my undivided attention to do what ever they say to help me get better. Even to live just a little bit longer.
I continue to suffer from chest pains, coughing up liquids, difficulty breathing at times, I have not been able to go back to work with efforts of SSI/SSDI denials, I would be more than happy to return to work. Only to be taken to the hospital with a minor stroke and or chest pains. I have just gotten notice of the State of Hawaii Medical Examiner officially approved my case as Disabled. I finally have a Circut Judge Court date for Social Security on May 21, 2008. My condition continues to be unmonitored by a qualified Cardiologist.
Reviewed April 25, 2008
I have been trying for over a year to get Kaiser in Bakersfield, CA to find out what is wrong with my back. All that has been done is an x-ray which showed arthrtis. I begged my primary doctor to find out what is wrong and she is not going to do it. She todl me yesterday that it was nouthing and told me she would not give me anymore medication for it, to take tylenol. It is all I can do to function with the medication so will probally end up out of work. She is also unwilling to put me on disability.
Now I also have something wrong with my hands/wrists. They are very painful and swollen for over a month. Arthritis in my back, swollen painful hands and wrists, low grade fever, fatigue. I am not a doctor but it would seem to me that she (the doctor) would be trying to find out what is wrong. I am being treated like there is nouthing wrong with me and my life is falling apart.
Kaiser is the worst thing that has ever happened to me. The only reason I am there at all is because I can't afford to pay cash for a doctor since I am broke from missing work, due to them not treating me in the first place.
I am in alot of pain, have no diagnosis, and am going to have to file bankruptcy due to missing work.
Reviewed April 8, 2008
Where do I start??? Since my husband and I HAD to use Kaiser (because that is all the insurance his employer carries) we have had major problems. #1. I was mis-diagnosed by a doctor who did not speak english and who took no time to find out what was wrong with me. #2. I was told I should not be disabled because ALL the other patients with Psoriatic Arthritis are not disabled. #3.
I was told I could make an appointment to get a second opinion and did that, but was told they could not see me because I was the other DR's patient after I waited 1 hour for my appointment. That is just the start. I have more cases but it will take to long to list them. Not ONE visit or experience with Kaiser has been a pleasant or typical visit.
I have filed two complaints with member services and have not received a proper outcome. I feel that unless I do something drastic and go outside their world and file a complaint, nothing is going to get done! I will be filing this complaint anywhere and everywhere I can. Then maybe someone will listen and make the changes necessary to properly care for patients. I believe I have a case against Kaiser,
Reviewed March 19, 2008
My family (excluding my son) has had helth insurance with Kaiser permanente for over 3 years. Recently, I submitted and aplication for my son to be covered as well and he was denied due to migraines and seizures (he's 6 years old). Naturally we had to look for a family plan that would cover him. we are covered with United Healthcare as of 3/1/2008 and we had already paid our premium (541.00) for the month of March.
I was told that if I faxed proof to Kaiser that we were covered with United healthcare as of 3/1/2008 we would be refunded our premium for the moth of March. Today I called to check on the status of our refund only to be told that our policy will not be cancelled until 3/31/2008. In other words, we are not getting our money back. I think this is robbery.
Reviewed March 5, 2008
Email sent to Kaiser [48 hrs., still haven't heard from them]:
For many years now we've been paying a small fortune for our Kaiser health care. We probably have enough money invested in it by this time, that we should own the west wing of the Salem Lancaster facility [$829.00 a mo., $750.00 deductible]. I've had Systemic Lupus most of my life, and have not bothered them with any health care issues in more years than I can possibly remember. Last week I began having severe symptoms to the point that I couldn't get up and walk. I waited until I could before calling to make an appointment, which I attempted to do yesterday, March 4th. Long story short; I was told by the appointment desk that the nurse would be calling me back. Over 24 hrs. later, I'm still waiting for that call. In the meantime, I've grown so angry that I refuse to call back. Had I been an elderly person suffering from chest pains, I'd probably have been dead by this time. I was *never* asked what my symptoms were.
In my opinion, there is no room for mistakes like this in the health care business. If it were possible, I'd use the portion of Kaiser that I should own by now, to terminate whoever was responsible for not returning calls yesterday. My daughter-in-law is on the Oregon Health Care plan and she receives far better health care than Kaiser demonstrated to me. You might consider removing your Values webpage, because it certainly does not apply.
Reviewed Feb. 4, 2008
I wnat to know where/to whom I can write to complain about the outrageous fees I am being charged for Kaiser Medical Insurance. Every year,it seems to go up an extraordinary 121.5%. I am 55 years old with a 45 yr old husband and we are paying $729/mo for our medical insurance with Kaiser. We are healthy and go only for maintenance or occasional issues. Where can I complain?
The monthly insurance premium for Kaiser insurance is killing us - it comes out to $8748.00/ year. HELP!
Reviewed Feb. 3, 2008
Kaiser has refused to provide, prescribe or cover effective medications. I have asked repeatedly over the last month to be placed back on my Allegra D-24 as I was on for 18+ months while covered under Aetna. Since this medication is not on Kaiser's formulary, they won't provide it to me even though it's the only medication that is effective for me.
As a result of their refusal to effectively treat, prescribe or cover the only medication that works for me, I am now faced with severe post-nasal drip leading to intense constant nausea, excruciatingly painful sore throats that impede swallowing and sometimes breathing, low-grade fevers and headaches. As a result of the symptoms, I am not sleeping very well at all. Combining the lack of restful sleep with the low grade fevers--I am barely able to stay focused on my work at the office. Because of the congestion and sore throats and nausea, I'm barely able to make it through a 20-minute call with a client without putting them on hold to attend to my medical issues, let alone the nearly 15 hour-long instruction calls I provide each week.
As a result, my work product and productivity are suffering. At home, the symptoms are adversely impacting my ability to enjoy marital relationship with my husband - a fact that is starting to seriously upset him off. The resurgence of the symptoms (directly the result of Kaiser's refusal to prescribe, provide or cover the only effective treatment shown to work for me),Kaiser Permanente is in direct violation of the basic Hippocratic oath as I am being harmed by their intentional injustice.
Reviewed Jan. 28, 2008
I canceled my medical insurance with Kaiser on 12/31/07 and on 01/07/08 was charged again for services. I canceled my medical insurance because I was not working at the time and needed to save money for other expenses. The $254 that was debited caused my bank account to become overdrawn, for which I was fined $30-$35 for every payment that bounced. I had a tight budget on my bank account, and now because of this, it has sent my funds into an upheaval. I contacted Kaiser services twice by phone and tried to correct this but was told there was nothing they can do regarding the overdrawn fees; however the second rep said they will refund my payment immediately.
When I asked to speak with a manager I was put in touch with Laura Inzunza. She was very rude and cut me off several times as I was trying to explain the situation; however, again I was told that I would receive an immediate refund for the Kaiser services but not for the bank fees. I waited 10 days without receiving a refund, then contacted member services once more only to be told by a rep (Rudy Osti) that I would now have to wait up to a month or more before they would be able to refund my money. At this point my bank account has been in the red for over 2 weeks, and my overdrawn funds keep adding up, totaling $255 at this point. I have not received any services even though Kaiser has kept my money, and now I have a substantial problem with bank fees as well. I had been a loyal customer with Kaiser, with uninterrupted coverage for over 10 years prior to this incident.
The $254 I was mischarged resulted in overdrawn bank fees totaling $255. That makes a total out of pocket expense of $509. Obviously the amount of stress regarding something like this is very high. I have excellent credit so I do my best to maintain it. A situation like this puts my credit in jeopardy as well as an immense stress on the rest of my life. Because of my negative funds, I may now have to move out of our existing apartment and find other housing.
Reviewed Jan. 18, 2008
I was on a $1,500.00 deductible plan which covered an annual preventative care physical for which I was supposed to provide a copay at time of service. I went to my annual physical and received care and while in the doctor's office, I was told by the doctor it would be covered. I also asked at the payment desk whether the labs and other care I was about to receive at the visit would be part of the covered preventative services and was told by all Kaiser employees who I asked that it would be covered. A few months later, I got a bill for $130. This bill was for labs and services (regular stuff like charges for having blood drawn, lipids, thyroid test etc.) that I had been assured when I was at the appointment would be free. I called to dispute the charges but it is really no use with Kaiser. They say that I have to pay it even though I was told that it would be free. The exact same thing happened to 2 friends of mine who are also Kaiser members. They both were advised by their doctor at the time of the appointment to have a service and when they asked how much it would be they were told it would be free. Then they received bills later. One friend was also charged for services/care that she did not even receive and only after a few hours on the phone did she get them to take that off her bill. I do not recommend Kaiser health insurance.
Reviewed Jan. 14, 2008
My dad started complaining that his feet were numb. In addition, he developed a phlegmy cough that would not go away. He went to several people telling him that he just needed to lose weight, exercise, etc. His feet became, and are to this day, a brilliant shade of purple and he can no longer feel them. His coughing became worse, and he often produced sputum or threw up without warning. The tests ordered were always the usually EKG, and then Sorry, nothing is wrong go home and that was that, no heart problem, no followups. He went to podiatrists, specialists, and they tested him for things like leprosy and a interesting array of tests that yielded, not suprisingly, no results.
One day, my dad's coughing just got so bad, he went in and the doctor told him that he was just a hypochondriac. I'm dealing with real sick and dying people, you're just overweight and need to lose weight. However, my mom insisted that an x-ray be taken. Hesitantly and annoyed, the doctor consented at last just to have my parents leave. When the doctor came back in the room after looking at the x-ray, his tone and mannerisms had changed. Then he broke the news that my dad had congestive heart failure.
My dad has probably had this for years, and not one person caught it. The coughing, the poor circulation... no one linked it as an obvious heart problem. Congestive heart failure is not reversible, what is done is done, and there is not a day that doesn't go by where don't I curse them from taking away from me what could be precious years with my dad. The result of the doctor was to mumble the results, and my mom angrily began to make calls to change my dad's doctor. To her surprise, the representative told her We've already changed his doctor, something that my dad had tried to do before, but now was done automatically. If that isn't citing fault, I don't know what is. If only someone had helped us, listened, took more interest sooner. If only someone had cared.
Reviewed Jan. 9, 2008
My husband needed a minor surgical procedure performed in his doctor's office. The doctor's office called for pre-certification but were told it was not required. However, Kaiser penalized us because a pre-cert. was not obtained. My husband required the same procedure two months and six months later. In those instances, my husband witnessed the doctor's staff attempting to obtain a pre-cert. In each instance, they were again told a pre-cert. was not required. However, again, we were penalized because a pre-cert. was not obtained. I contacted Kaiser several times in this regard with no remedy at hand.
This has been going on for about 10 months. Kaiser has requested evidence that the doctor's office has called even though twice I have spoken to reps. who have recognized that there was evidence that a Kaiser staff member had given incorrect information because of confusion due to the method used by Kaiser to determine if a procedure needs to be pre-certified or not.
Reviewed Dec. 1, 2007
My daughter misses school and must wait a month for appointments. The drive takes 2 hours because of traffic and sometimes she gets carsick. When I need to talk to the doctor about her injectible medication, I sometimes have to wait 2 days. I have also been told that she may need back surgery and that there is only one doctor qualified to do it. A quick check on him shows that he had a malpractice case filed and awarded against him.
Reviewed Nov. 29, 2007
I'd had two miscarriages, and two Kaiser Permanente doctors didn't treat as high risk pregnancy at 37 years of age. One doctor told me I could get hit by a bus tomorrow along with the rest of my family, when I had a concern about the cord being wrapped around my baby's neck at 7 and a 1/2 months pregnant. I finally had a c-section after my water broke but no delivery after 24 hours.
After a day I got cellulitis; nobody told me what it was until a nurse slipped and told me. My legs and stomach became so huge and a large amount of pain caused me to cry for three days, and theyonly gave me 1 to 2 Vicodin for pain. After 3 days they gave me antibiotics interveniously, tried several ones; then 2 together got rid of most of it. After 1 week I was sent home with different antibiotics and vicodin; these other antibiotics did not work, and I got it again and had to go to the ER, costing more money. They put me 6 different antibiotics, and this after I kept telling them the whole time, what worked in the hospital. Spent over $300 in doctor fees and antibiotics that did not work. Have blood in stomach from c-section that still hurts, and they won't prescribe any more pain med, saying I will get addicted.
They have cut me off all together. Now I'm getting severe headaches, and the headache clinic has not even contacted me. I have been falling down having chest pains and not being able to see properly. I cry just coming out of the appt. because they tell me to leave, and they say my pain should be done with. The doctor tried to prescribe something else, but I have no more money to pay for something that might not work. I take vicodin for migranes already and never got addicted; it's in my records. I would go to a different place but my husband's work only is limited to certain plans, and the only other one didn't pan out.
Reviewed Oct. 2, 2007
If you have cancer, do NOT go to Kaiser. I'm stuck with Kaiser because of insurance. My oncologist does NOT follow up with me with my questions unless they receive several calls from me. She is more reactive than proactive with my case (good thing I am in the medical field so I can suggests things that she could do for me, rather than wait for her to do it). She started me on my chemotherapy without letting me know (the plan was to hold chemotherapy, next thing you know, I receive this phone call from them that I'm starting chemotherapy in 2 days!!). I called her up, but she had gone on vacation for 2 weeks!!
Reviewed Oct. 2, 2007
Avoid Kaiser as much as you can! I had surgery 4 months ago and was hospitalized, and they collected the fees for that. Last month, I had another ourpatient surgery and was charged regular fees because apparently we have not yet met our deductible! We called member services to ask why my payment 4 months ago has not been reflected yet, and they said it takes a while for them to code the charges and submit the payments!! It's been months but their records still do not reflect that I've already met my deductible and should not be charged anymore!!
It is ridiculous because they take our money at the time of the service, yet for them to keep their system updated, it takes forever! In the meantime, patients are continued to be charged unnecessarily (even though they have already met their deductible), because of Kaiser's SLOWNESS!! I mean, what about those patients who do not have any extra money and use their credit cards to pay for services and accrue interests unecessarily (because they were charged unnecessarily!
Reviewed March 10, 2007
We had Kaiser through his job. Well, after 39 year's of service, Albertson's closed there warehouse, and took away our medical. Well, I applied for Kaiser, and they denied us because we have high blood pressure, which is under control, and we had it when we had kaiser already.
Reviewed March 6, 2006
While enrolling in employer provided healthcare coverage, I mistakenly answered one of the questions on the form incorrect. The question asked whether I, or any of my dependents, had taken prescription drugs in the last twelve (12) months. To the best of my ability, I answered the question "No."
Ten (10) months later, the insurance company discovers the mistake and informs me that not only are they dropping my coverage, but will be billing me for the costs incurred by the plan.
Reviewed Jan. 6, 2006
My wife Maria needed to talk to a Psychologist on Dec 31, 2005., and was sent to KMHC as a "voluntary" patient so she could have some therapy sessions and professional help as well. Unfotunately, after a great start in Unit 3, following rules and being nice she was given drugs to treat her "Depression" and everything has been downhill since then. Now she is being held as an "involuntary" patient in Unit 2.
Reviewed July 18, 2005
My son went to the Emergency Room for care. Kaiser paid the hospital minus our $50 deductable, however, Kaiser felt the physician only deserved $44 out of the $253 billed amount.
Imagine an emergency room doctor being paid only $44 for an emergency visit!
Reviewed June 8, 2005
I went to the doctor for what was diagnosed as a viral infection of the throat, causing laryngitis. I also went in because I have a bunion on my left foot and am having difficulty functioning and walking.
The doctor acted as if she was afraid to touch me. She stood back, looked at my foot, and prescribed some Motrin for my throat. She stated that it was nothing and that I will be able to speak within the next day or two.
Well, that wasn't the case. I still had laryngitis and she insisted that I go back to work in customer service knowing that I could not speak.
I put in a complaint with Kaiser administrative office and they said they will document the concern. I immediately switched to another doctor but Kaiser basically told me there was nothing they could do.
So they gave the ok for me to go back to work limping and not being able to talk.
Reviewed April 25, 2005
Kaiser scheduled an appointment for us to receive a letter to assist my daughter in switching high schools. They instructed my wife to use my daughter's membership card and pay the $20 co-pay for the appointment. They had my wife watch a 10-minute video and then told her that they couldn't give her the letter!
After the terrible service they have given my family, my wife cancelled our coverage with Kaiser. They starting billing us for nonpayment and said they would go back and date our cancellation to before the appointment. They are now trying to charge us $638 for non-member services and have sent the charge to a collection agency that harasses us day and night and is ruining our credit.
Kaiser Permanente Insurance Company Information
- Company Name:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Website:
- healthy.kaiserpermanente.org