NOLA Podiatry Group

If I could give this practice ZERO stars — I would!
After showing up for my appointment early — with the numerous pages of «new patient» paperwork completed in advance, I signed in, provided my ID, insurance card and said paperwork to the receptionist before finding seat in the waiting room (not a difficult task since the waiting room was empty).
I was called back up to the desk to collect my cards and to pay my co-​pay. While retrieving my wallet from my bag, the receptionist called attention to the fact that I had not provided my social security number on my paperwork — she informed me that I MUST fill that in. I told her that I NEVER provide my social security number, it is not required to bill my insurance and for her to use my insurance ID number. She insisted and told me that they require this in case you do not pay your bill — they use your SS# to track down delinquent patients.
I reminded her that they were providers for my insurance and I had no issues paying my copay for the visit but I would not be providing her with my SS#. She informed me that if I refused to provide it, she would have to collect in full for the visit and reimburse me after my insurance pays.
DOES THAT EVEN MAKE SENSE?! Why would I pay you in full for charges that will be discounted by my insurance company because YOU ARE A PROVIDER!!!
I politely informed her that, based on this ridiculous office policy, I would be canceling my appointment. After retrieving my completed paperwork, ID and insurance card copies, I left the office and contacted my insurance company.
My insurance representative informed me that, as a provider, they cannot ask me to pay in full and they should not require SS#‘s as this is personal identifiable information that the industry has moved away from.
Insurance complaint filed — Check
Insurance investigation to follow — Check
No wonder I received a call from their office 1 hour before my scheduled appointment to let me know that I could come in early if I wanted. Is this because the previously scheduled patient (s) walked out as well?
Remember that provider agreement that you signed, NOLA Podiatry? You might want pull it out, dust it off and re-​read.
Good luck with building your practice.

Looks like an place that you would see on american greed there office is nice but there equipment looks like it came straight out of the 90s