Question:
Has anyone ever been denied and then approved on an appeal?

I have Anthem BC/BS option 2000, I have just been denied, after waiting 6 weeks. I am going to start an appeal, but I hate to wait 6 more weeks. And I am not really sure where to begin with an appeal, I will welcome any suggestions. Reason for denial: There could not determine that I had any life threatening conditions, immediate or short term. I am 130 lbs overweight, high blood pressure, and extreme pain in my knees and ankles.what are my chances of an approval with an appeal.    — STAR W. (posted on December 21, 1999)

December 21, 1999
Star, a lot of people have won with an appeal. Go for it! If no luck then contact Walter Lindstrom, a lawyer who goes to bat for a reasonable fee. Rosie
   — Rose B.

December 21, 1999
star I have been turned down and then I went to appeals and was turned down, but I fought it and won. Go see an orthopedic doctor on your knees, and get him to help you, they do wonders for the gastric patients.
   — [Anonymous]

December 22, 1999
Star - I have bc/bs of IL PPO - I had a lot of trouble getting approval (partly because my co-morbidities were suspected but not documented). Finally, I wrote to the Dept of Ins. (or State Insurance Commissioner). I felt that if it is not excluded, I am entitled to the benefits - our BMI alone should be enough. It took them only 5 weeks to get approval for me. My surgery is January 19 2000 in St. Louis. Hang in there
   — Mary P.