Does it help if you call insurance company?

Hey! I just read on another website, "lapbandtalk.com" from a doctor that sometimes insurance companies are more receptive if patients call and follow-up on their surgery request.  The doctor is out of TX and this was posted in 2007.   Anyone know whether this is correct.  I'm sure it varies from insurance company to insurance company.  I just found it somewhat interesting that a doctor suggested this. Also, has anyone heard of doctors offices letting Allergan (lap band mfg) starting to submit their patients surgery requests to insurance companies? Thanks, Melissa