$300 exam fee charged without our…
$300 exam fee charged without our knowledge or consent.
I rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was deeply unethical and unprofessional.
My elderly mother visited Op. Dr. Utku Erdem Özer for a brief knee examination to determine whether PRP injections might be appropriate. Without any prior notice, disclosure, or consent, she was charged USD $300 for a short consultation.
To be absolutely clear:
- Our concern is not that a private clinic charges an examination fee.
- Our concern is that no information whatsoever about any examination fee was communicated before the appointment.
There was:
- No mention of an examination fee during booking
- No communication of any fee to my mother beforehand
- No information about fees on the clinic’s website
- No mention of fees in WhatsApp messages or on the clinic’s WhatsApp page
Transparent disclosure of fees is a basic ethical obligation, especially when dealing with international patients and elderly individuals, who rely on clear communication to make informed decisions.
When I raised this concern, the clinic’s response was that the fee was “legally mandated” and non-refundable, without addressing the core issue of lack of transparency. By that logic, a clinic could charge any amount after the fact and claim it is mandatory. That is not acceptable medical or business practice.
Patients should never be placed in a position where they discover costs only after a service has already been performed.
This experience left us feeling taken advantage of and seriously undermines trust. I strongly advise international patients, especially those accompanying elderly family members, to confirm all fees in writing before visiting this clinic.
Until this lack of transparency is acknowledged and addressed, I cannot recommend this clinic and will continue to seek an appropriate resolution.
