Question:
what is required to get approval from empire?

what sort of documentaion do they ask for?    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 24, 2001)

August 24, 2001
You may have better success if you e-mail members that have this same insurance. Go to the top of any page and click on "insurers". Then click on #2 "browse the list" and then chose NY. You will then get an alphabetical listing of insurers that members of this site have dealt with. There appear to be several with this same plan. (good news-I saw that everyone was approved!). Next to their comments, is their e-mail address. Maybe you could e-mail them directly and ask your specific questions. Hope this helps. Shelley
   — Shelley.

August 25, 2001
I am in Ohio but have Empire because our headquarters is located there. I went through 2 denials with them and believe me it wasn't easy. The most important thing you can do is have as much documentation the first time around. A lot of this is going to fall on your shoulders so be prepared. On my final attempt I picked up my medical records from my PCP and faxed them to the Nurse Case Manager. The main thing they want to see is the existing co-bids and the documentation for them. A personal letter from you giving your history/diet attempts with dates (wether physician assisted or not) and how your weight affects your life is very helpful as well. It wasn't easy but I am having surgery September 13th and I think going through what I did has made it even more meaningful to me. There are also other outside resources you can use that I would be happy to help you with. Email me if you need help or just let me know how things are going.....kristen
   — kristen H.