Dissatisfaction with the overall quality of care and excessive fee to complete FMLA forms /medical records
I am writing this review to express my dissatisfaction with OrthoCarolina Foot & Ankle Institute in Charlotte (located at 250 N Caswell Rd) During my husband’s second doctor’s visit he asked the Orthopedic Specialist if he would complete his FMLA form. The doctor stated that they require patients to go through a third-party company called “Sharecare” to request medical records or FMLA forms to be completed. While I understand the need to cover costs associated with filling out forms and providing medical records, In my opinion, this fee is excessive. This raises concerns about the fairness and reasonableness of the $30 charged from the third party ( Sharecare)
Given my sentiments towards this $30 fee and the potential negative impact it may have on patients, I am concerned that it could deter individuals from obtaining their medical records altogether. Charging patients a $30 fee may be financially burdensome for some, and as a result, they may forgo retrieving their records. ( this can get very costly due to short-term disability requiring the FMLA form to be updated per doctor visit) This could also have serious consequences, as patients rely on their medical records for various purposes, such as applying for insurance, disability claims, or even pursuing legal actions.
OrthoCarolina should take into account the potential implications this process may have on patient access and healthcare management. I would also strongly recommend familiarizing themselves with the "Medical Records Rights in NC" pamphlet to ensure compliance.
Furthermore, I feel compelled to address another matter that occurred during my visit to the clinic. As I was waiting in the lobby, I witnessed two women at the front desk observing a lady on crutches struggling to check in at the kiosk. Despite the obvious need for assistance, these staff members did not offer any help or even whisper to ask if she required assistance. This was disheartening to witness. Please try to display more compassion and consideration towards patients. ( whew child! the basic human decency train has left with the dinosaurs!!! )
Additionally, I would also like to highlight the unfortunate experience my husband had during his first visit to the clinic, particularly with the physician assistant (PA) who attended to him. The encounter was a complete disaster, I’m literally just one keystroke away from contacting the NC Medical Board about his behavior. (I have a copy of the message thread) This further contributes to my dissatisfaction with the overall quality of care provided by OrthoCarolina.
August 30, 2023
Unprompted review