“Patient responsibility to verify insurance coverage....really, since when? - be forewarned! ”

My son had been referred and scheduled for appointment weeks ago with this office to be established as a new patient with Dr. Gerber's practice. He had injured himself during baseball season at college. The office phoned me to confirm my son's appt., the day before. My son drove 2.5 hours from his (summer) home in Bradenton to Naples only to be told that they do not accept his Aetna HMO insurance, and that he would be responsible upfront to pay $500.00 to be seen by this doctor today. When I spoke to the staff they informed me that it was the, 'patient's responsibility' to verify insurance providers themselves, and that they were 'out of network', even though he was referred to them by another physician. Everyone is quick to put the blame on someone else, including a twenty year old, instead of doing their job themselves! No one took the time to verify this, very simple step. They were rude and hung up the phone on me. I've since called and left message to have the office administrator (Lorena Ortiz) return the call, and she has never called back. I hope my son never needs this physician's services, as I would not recommend this practice at all. The staff is incompetent and rude. Hopefully, he will never require surgery and will heal from his back injury. This practice is unprofessional, and leaves much to be desired. Steer clear!

“Positve experience.”

I felt very at ease with Dr. Gerber and his staff. His PA was excellent as was his nurse. All appointments were on time, and explanations were thorough.