Question:
I was denied by Cigna even though I have medically necessary co-morbs

   — JoAnn W. (posted on August 5, 2002)

August 5, 2002
What reason did CIgna give you for denial? I have Cigna and am just starting this process and have heard that CIgna is just the worse Insurance company to have deal with. I have been told also that sometimes they will deny you and list a list of things that if you complete they will relook. I am wondering what all your letter said. thank you
   — Rebekah P.

August 5, 2002
Did you have 12 weeks of physicians supervised diets within the last year? That's why my first denial was, so I got my PCP to give me a diet and we carefully crafted her notes over the next 12 weeks to make sure all my co-morbidities were mentioned. Then we resubmitted and I was approved.
   — Cathy S.

August 5, 2002
I WAS DENIED THE FIRST TIME WITH MY INSURANCE, BECAUSE OF A SIMPLE CODING PROBLEM. FIND OUT WHY!
   — Pam G.

August 5, 2002
I have Cigna PPO and was approved very quickly. I agree you need to find out why they denied you, than start working on an appeal. Best of luck to you Hugs
   — Jeri P.

August 5, 2002
I agree with everyone else. Cigna should definitely give you a reason for your denial. I have Cigna and dreaded that first denial, but both I and a friend attempting approval received approval within 24 hours (both postop, both doing well :0)) Best of luck to you!
   — Eli C.

August 5, 2002
I have cigna ppo and was approved on the first try. you need to call cigna and find out why......... if they pay for wls for morbid obesity they have to approve you. I live in Il. so don't know if differs state to state. Good luck and let us all know how it turns out on the message board. Diane
   — diane H.

August 5, 2002
Remember, not all insurance is the same just because it shares the same name. It comes down to what your employer has bought from them. I have Cigna and I was approved after being initially denied because they said they hadn't received this, that and the other when they had. When I called and complained (nicely and respectfully) and informed them I would put the whole package together again with tabs and a summary, they called me back and approved me. My husband's employer is BP and there are thousands of employees under the plan. That does make a difference. Although it could be an employer with thousands of employees who buys a lower level of insurance and then it could be different. Call and find out why. Don't let up until you have received an unequivocable NO or YES. God's peace to you. Nelly
   — Nell C.