Still waiting

My surgery is next Wednesday  and I still haven't been approved by my insurance company. Is this normal? I called the insurance company yesterday and they said that they did not show anything about it and to call my provider. Well I called my providers office and they said that they sent in my paper work a while ago and that they defintly have it. Should I be worried?

I've never heard of surgery being scheduled without an approval.  Very odd.

Unlike Cheri, I have heard of them giving a date before Ins approval if they really did not expect to have any problems with that Ins carrier.  That is strange that your Ins said they do not have it when your Dr's office said they have submitted it already! It still could be in processing BUT you have to go for your pre-op clearance and all a couple days before surgery so talking about waiting to the last min....GEZZZZ!! What does your office say about your date coming so soon and nothing yet???? I would be on the phone myself but I can get crazy that way please keep us posted! I wish you all the best!

Well I decided to be a pain in the butt and call my insurance company back. They said that my provider just sent in the paperwork yesterday. I can't even believe my luck! I have everything planned (babysiter, hotel, time off from work and my mom took time to be with me) So I called my provider back and she stated that my liklyhood of being approved by next week was good. I sure hope so!! What a mess expecially for a nationallly accrediated bariatric surgery program! 

Jennifer, who is your insurance co?

Some of them are GREAT & approve within 48 hours, especially if they have a relationship w/the provider. I would be on the phone EVERY DAY with the provider telling them to be on the phone EVERY DAY with the insurance company! My approval took a couple of days longer than usual because the "New York Rep." at the insurance co is "slow to respond." Once my doc's office called her supervisor, it was approved!

Either your provider really did send it late, which is inexcusable, or your ins. co. is covering for it falling between the cracks.

I have Blue Shield of Northeastern NY. Thank you for your post it makes me feel a lot better!

Make sure that you keep after them.  I also have heard of the surgery date before the approval 'cause it happened to me.  I'll put my head on the line but my Magic 8 ball says it's a go for next week! (Gulp) Best Wishes~~ Diane

Jen!  I am keeping my fingers crossed for you! I am having my surgery the 26th it sounds like you are the 27th but mine will be at Ellis :)  I had BSBC and it was approved with in the week. Jamie

I have Blue Shield of Northeastern NY. Is that the same company? I sure hope so! Thank you that makes me feel better. Good luck with you surgery!!