My husband visited Open MRI in Olympia, WA in the beginning of 2007 for an image of his c-spine. After taking the MRI to the neurosurgeon, the doctor stated that the quality was too poor to read and that another MRI needed to be done. The second MRI was done at South Sound Imaging, and showed sever stenosis on at least one vertebrae, and moderate to mild on others. None of this was visible on the first MRI, or written in their report from their radiologists. When I called Open MRI to dispute my bill and stated that the doctor could not use it because of poor quality, had their radiologist review the image and stated that it met their standards. They refused to discuss this with me and stated that payment was due in full or it would be sent to collection. My bill is currently in collection at this time. I was notified by Susan M. Golden, manager of the corporate office, in writing that “They don’t do things wrong, they do them right”, and not to contact their office regarding this issue. She stated that my account was now in collection. I felt personally attacked when she questioned in her letter if I had even paid for my second MRI from the other facility. I felt that the letter was very degrading and unprofessional. It saddens me to see the medical community treat people like this. The financial hardship of an illness or injury in the family is a very difficult situation. Please hold the medical community responsible for the treatment you receive so that others do not find themselves in the same situation. If you have any suggestions on how to best handle this situation, please contact me at
[email protected].