Been patient for more than 6 years with this dental practice. Had consultation with dentist for routine check up. Missed hygienist appointment prior to this appointment (my fault) for which I apologised and the dentist advised me to book another appointment. I had to cancel one prior to that but I 'cancelled' it. Later when I made the payment in reception, I found out I was charged more than usual for routine check up and the receptionist mentioned they are for hygienist services. As the dentist was busy seeing another patient I made the payment and requested a call back to discuss this. Didn't receive any call. I called back week later and requested to speak to practice manager to find out the dentist involved is the manager of the practice. They called me back the following day and mentioned they charged me £20 for missing the hygienist appointment!! No discussion about this 'fine' whatsoever during the consultation. I was utterly shocked at the way I was treated - no respect to me as a patient! When I confronted the explanation was that I cancelled one prior to that(!!) and I missed one in 2011 which I can't even remember because it was so long ago and so not sure whether it was even true! If they can do this how can I trust them in any other treatment costs? I demanded my money back which was sent through post but no apology along with the cheque - shows the practice doesn't care! The practice also hasn't taken any steps to warn the patients about their harsh stringent fining policies!
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