FSA Reimbursement

In the years since surgery my wife and I were able to get Flex Spending reimbursement for the extra vitamins and protein supplements.  All that was required was a copy of our letter of medical necessity with each request.

Suddenly, and I do mean suddenly - like since November, the claims are getting denied.  Has anyone been experiencing recent problems or have you busted thru issues such as this with a separate letter, IRS ruling quotation or whatever.

Any information you might have might be helpful.  Heck, private messages are welcome too.

I just started using the flex spending program and, so far, they have covered vitamins since I submitted a letter of medical necessity. 

I'd be interested in hearing what you find out.

Hi JL,

I don't have a FSA ( employer doesn't offer ) but I copied this letter of the BE site, maybe its how your letter of med necessity is worded...Hope this might help, good luck...

 

RE: Name:(your name here)
Address:(your name here)

To Whom It May Concern:

(name) _______ was seen in my office on (date)____________ for her 18 month follow up after her laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. She has been doing wonderfully and her weight is now down to ______ pounds with a BMI of _____.

Because her operation included bypassing approximately 100cm of the proximal small intestine as well as limited size of her gastric pouch, she is at a higher risk of developing mineral and vitamin deficiency unless she suppliments for the rest of her life. It is medically necessary to suppliment with a mulitvitamin containing an adequate dose of thiamine and folate, vitamin B12 and iron(Ferrous or Amino Iron) suppliments to prevent anemia, calcium citrate with vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis and protein suppliments to maintain her lean body mass. Her diagnosis is post-surgical malabsorption (ICD-9 code: 579.3)

Again, thank you for your kind referral. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to call me.

Sincerely,

Name of Surgeon _______________________, MD, FACS
Name of Program
Hospital or affiliation and address



 

We have a very similar letter of medical necessity.

An attorney as suggested we simply get a prescription from the Doctor for the supplements and protein supplments and try that.  I call it the "IT"S A PRESCRIPTION!!!"  argument.