I had just moved Goleta, California, from NJ, but ...

I had just moved Goleta, California, from NJ, but unfortunately soon discovered I had a root canal infection. I had no other choice but to visit the Goelta Valley Cottage hospital. With no avail my visit was useless, as they could not provide any beneficial services. I provided my insurance nonetheless therefor I would not be charged a bill for simply stopping by. My insurance paid the bill and that was that. However, two weeks later my root canal infection got rapidly worse. Out of desperation, I had visited the Santa Barabara Valley Cottage hospital a few miles away since it was closest to my job. I was simply told after they took down my insurance, and sat for an hour to see a doctor that they cannot assist me or provide any real services seeing as though they were clearly not a dentist office. I was discharged and went about my day. A week later I was soon sent a bill for $279.30. I was confused and upset to find out I was being billed when I provided my insurance. They denied any record of my insurance being on file when in reality they had it on file from my previous visit at the Goleta chain, and even when I had provided it again that second visit. I've contacted my insurance regarding this bill, and they've stated it has been paid. As months went by, I was contacted this bill has been sent to collections and with built up interest. With complete shock, I asked why my bill went to collections, with the response of "my insurance has denied paying this bill." My insurance has stated otherwise with proof of the bill being paid. Santa Barbara Valley Cottage hospital, would not get in touch with my insurance no matter how many letters and calls they recieved. I paid collections in order to avoid bad credit. It has now being going through the claims department from my insurance and will hopefully soon be sorted out with a full reimbursement from my insurance. Overall, my experience with Santa Barbara Cottage hospital has been completely traumatic on me emotionally and financially. It made me fear ever stepping foot in a hospital out of NJ. The staff was extremely rude, and for the most part quiet and blank faced. They clearly misinformed me, apparently never took down my insurance, and have been unreceptive the whole time. I pity those who live in Santa Barbara County, that's the worst hospital I ever had the displeasure of stepping foot in. Beware!