Question:
Question about BCBS approval letter

I have seen this question answered before, but can't find it now. Sorry to be redundant! I received my approval letter from BCBS of IL and it has the basic wording that this is a covered benefit and is covered 100%. Then at the end, they say that this letter does not guarantee payment. I think I remember that wording being pretty standard with BCBS and that it doesn't mean they won't pay. It's just they won't commit to paying without bills being submitted first. Is this correct, or did I just imagine this? I just want to make sure I'm really, truly approved!!!    — Kathy S. (posted on October 3, 2002)

October 3, 2002
Oh Gosh! Now you have me worried. I too have BCBS of Illinois (PPO). I called them directly after I was told they pre-approved me for 70%. I was curious as the hospital that I am using is in the network. They lady on the phone told me they would pay 90% with no deductible.
   — Cynthia N.

October 3, 2002
My insurance is BCBS of TN, and my letter said the same thing. It is because they will not pay if the docotor doesn't do the surgery he asked for in the amount of time he asked for. Also, if your policy was to renew and drop the wls coverage it would not be a guarantee. That's all. It's not a big deal, just a little c.m.a. going on.
   — Pam G.

October 3, 2002
hi there! i too had bcbs of il. my medical group was fox valley medicine. i got the same thing and at the bottom it stated there was no guarantee of payment. i freaked out! but my dad assured me that his had said the same thing when he had a surgery. rest assured everything was 100 percent approved and covered! best of luck to you! :) csrrie in illinois
   — carrie M.

October 3, 2002
I believe that is pretty much standard wording for al insurance companies. I had my surgery when I had Nippon Life and my approval was worded that way. My insurance changed to BCBS two days after my surgery and I've had three hospital admissions since the surgery and all the letters approving admission were worded that way. By the way, both insurance companies paid for everything.
   — Patty_Butler