Family Medical Eye Center
2216 Buenaventura Blvd,
Redding, CA

My 78-year-old mom went to Dr. Fox for the first time for an eye exam on 6-30-2022. When she was done with her examination the doctor asked if she wanted a copy of her prescription. My mom said yes. My parents then went to the receptionist to pay their bill and the receptionist asked her again if she wanted a copy of her prescription to take with her. My mom said yes. The receptionist said it was a $30 charge. They paid the bill and the receptionist informed my mom she would have to come back the next day to get a copy of the prescription. My mom then went to Walmart to get her eyeglasses as they are cheaper there. She mentioned to them that Dr. Fox charged her for a copy of her prescription. The person working in the Walmart eye center explained that it was unethical/illegal to charge for a prescription. They gave my mom two numbers to call and file a formal complain. My mom told me what happened and I called Dr. Fox's office to inquire. The receptionist said yes they charge if the patient wants a copy. I told her it was illegal. She said she would have the office manager call me. The office manager called me and said yes they do charge for the prescription. If a patient doesn't need a copy of the prescription then they save money by not charging for it. If a patient wants a copy they have to pay $30. I informed her that it is illegal to charge someone for a copy of their prescription. She informed me they researched it and it is legal what they are doing. I looked it up on the FTC website and it clearly states: "to get your prescription, know that your eye care professional can't make you pay an extra fee". The office manager didn't care. I told her we were going to file a complaint and she said go ahead. I don't know if it is because my mom is elderly (elderly abuse/taking advantage) and they thought she was an easy target or if they do it with all their patients. We are in the process of filing comlaints with the state depts and the bbb.