Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery

Amanda Kaine

3 months ago

Dr. Hoffman has been one of the best doctors I have ever had. She listens to my concerns, is quick and efficient in her responses, and above all- genuinely cares about my progression of my skin. I have never met a physician who is willing to not just hear you, but truly advocate for your health... Dr. Hoffman emulates this example of an above and beyond provider. I am SO happy with my skin progress and excited to continue seeing results!

Qiuyao Lu

a month ago

The clinical visit itself was fine, but the billing practices at this office are seriously frustrating and lack transparency.

I went in for a simple acne issue, and when I checked in, I was told my copay was $0. No one mentioned anything about out-of-pocket costs, even though I explicitly have a high-deductible plan. I later received a bill for several hundred dollars for what was a routine acne consultation, with no itemized explanation of what was actually billed to my insurance. Even accounting for Manhattan pricing, that felt excessive for the level of care provided.

When I tried to follow up, emails to the billing department went unanswered and phone calls never got through. The only communication I received was a text message that looked like spam, so I didn't even realize it was from them. When I finally reached someone by phone, I was told that no one can know the out-of-pocket cost until the claim is processed by insurance.

If that's the case, why can't the office simply provide the CPT codes or the amount billed to insurance upfront? That would let patients call their own insurance to get a real cost estimate before the visit, rather than being surprised by a bill weeks later with no clear breakdown. For a healthcare provider, this level of billing opacity is not acceptable, and I'd caution anyone considering this office to ask for a detailed cost estimate in writing before your appointment.
-------------------------------------
[Update in response to DB Dermatology’s reply]:

DB Dermatology chose to post a polished public reply here while their only email to me was a generic brush-off stating my inquiry was "forwarded to the relevant department." Since you publicly justified your billing rationale, here are the facts:

1. "Coded by your insurance": This is demonstrably false. Insurance companies do not select billing codes; providers select and submit CPT codes. DB Dermatology submitted CPT 99204. Claiming my insurer assigned a Level 4 code is a misleading attempt to dodge responsibility.

2. "Multiple diagnostic codes & waived cosmetic fee": During my visit, I explicitly asked Dr. Hoffman whether discussing my acne marks would incur an extra cosmetic fee, and she confirmed it would not. You cannot retroactively claim you "waived" a charge I never authorized. Furthermore, without the cosmetic aspect, the encounter consisted solely of routine facial acne and an inactive, stable hand dyshidrosis inquiry. Per AMA guidelines, routine superficial complaints managed with standard topical prescriptions fall under Low Complexity (CPT 99203). Multiple minor diagnoses do not automatically justify an inflated Level 4 code.

3. "Patients request codes ahead of time": I repeatedly asked about out-of-pocket costs prior to the appointment. Your front desk repeatedly gave evasive answers, insisting only on "$0 copay" while completely concealing the high-deductible exposure. Blaming the patient for not obtaining codes you actively withheld is completely disingenuous.

I have formally requested a coding audit and an electronic copy of my clinical progress notes under HIPAA in writing. I expect a substantive written resolution via email rather than performative PR replies online.

Amanda Gold

4 months ago

Dr. Hoffman is simply the best. A true artist and excellent practitioner. Could not ask for a better derm. Wish I could give more than five stars.

Gabrielle Bauer

9 months ago

Doctor Ahram is absolutely amazing. She helped get my skin to a super healthy place. It’s never looked better. She always listens to all of my questions and concerns. I trust her with my skin which is so rare these days!

Esther Lova

9 months ago

Dr. Hoffman and the entire team at Hudson Dermatology are absolutely amazing! Everyone is kind, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. I go to Hudson Dermatology for both my medical and cosmetic dermatology needs, and every appointment is consistently a wonderful experience. I always look forward to my visits. 10s across the board!