Window for surgery after approval

Hello, 

  I have run into another wall with my insurance.  My out of pocket is going to be $5,000 and I am going to have to think about if we can swing this.  If I do what is necessary and I am approved, how long is that approval valid?.  

I've been in the dumps all day and really want to cry.

My insurance is with UHC if it makes any difference.  Thank you!

I am not sure of the window after approval for surgery.  However, for the out of pocket expense, do you have a health savings account or flex spending account?  You should be able to use that full amount as needed.

Keep your head up!

The insurance coordinator emailed me today and said that the approval is valid throughout the year in which it's given.

Sadly, my window for participating in the FSA closed Monday. HOWEVER, I do have money in my Thrift savings that I can take a loan against.  I know that isn't a popular option but I know I can quickly re-pay the withdrawn amount and the interest charged is like 2.25%. There is no loan out there where I can get that low of a interest rate. So my plan is to save 1/2 and loan the rest. 

Where there's a will there's a way!