waiting for approval advice

angelpantz · October 3, 2003

While you are waiting for your approval do not be afraid to call your insurance 2-3 times a week. Don't be a pest but keep on them. I found out on 9/22 that I was denied because I called them. I wouldn't not have found out until 10/2 if I would have just waited for the letter. So since I already knew a second letter has been submitted and they have now requested additional information. Out of the 4 things that they have requested 2 of them are done and the other 2 will be done Monday night, 10/6. It is so worth calling them. (I also keep a call log)

Just thought I would share.

seanmama · October 26, 2003

Which insurance did you have? And what type of info were they asking for?

I have found the people answering the info line at the insurance company(UHC) unhelpful, unfriendly and ignorant. I asked to speak to the nurse reviewer on my case and was told that it was not within my rights to speak to her!

Best of luck to you, I hope you don't have to go thru what I am experiencing.

Alexandra · October 27, 2003

Each carrier handles these things differently. Aetna, for example, would not confirm or deny having received my surgeon's request for precert at all. They would only tell me AFTER it was denied that they'd even received it.

I agree that calling frequently can be helpful, but I'd caution against showing too much frustration. The flunkies who answer the phone really do not have much information and honestly can't do anything to speed things up. The point of calling frequently is to show that you're on top of it--which can make a difference in the way you're ultimately treated. (I don't mean the outcome of your request, but the speed and efficiency of your case.)