I have allergic asthma. i feel really sick (dizziness, tight chest, cough) but i never have a pulse ox below 98 so pcps don't take it seriously. do i really need a $1k consult with a pulmonologist?

Symptoms vs findings: Even though your Oxygen level is "normal" you still may have symptoms of shortness of breath. Inhalers can often help. Not sure you need a "specialist" at the price you quoted. Sometimes an empiric trial can produce results.

Asthma: Just because you don't have a low oxygen saturation does not mean you don't have significant asthma. Have they done pulmonary function testing? You need to see a Family Doc experienced with Asthma, an Allergist or a Pulmonologist. I see no reason it should cost that much. This is an everyday problem that we care for all the time.