To the Editor:

I write this letter more as a public service to consumers as some local doctors are requesting credit card information prior to treatment. I do not know how prevalent this new practice is, but it is one that the consumer should avoid at all costs. Recently, one of my doctor's robo-called patients, announcing the new policy of having credit card information on file. I called to confirm this policy and then told them to cancel my appointment. We are told repeatedly never to give out your credit card information so why would we do this at a doctor's office?

Some offices roll through office workers like we use toilet paper – one after another. Why would any of us want to chance a disgruntled employee stealing our information? Also, what prevents the office from sending the entire amount to your credit card bypassing the insurance process? That means they could get paid twice. The major reason why you should never do this is if you dispute a charge and the doctor already has their money why would they listen to you and your complaint? They won't.

The same week that this robo-call occurred, a weekly business column came out and said that this is legal, but ill advised for the consumer. They recommend that if your doctor insists on this, it is time to move on.

It is our responsibility as consumers to guard our information. If Google can be hacked, why not a local doctor's office? Please think twice before handing over your credit card information to anyone, especially to a doctor.

Jeanne Pritchard

Medina