Question:
I NEED HELP WITH AN APPEAL LETTER

   — Michelle M. (posted on July 3, 2001)

July 3, 2001
I too am in the appeal process(not enough Doctor supervised.....)I wrote a 3 page letter listing every diet I could think of since elementary school. I gave Doctor's name and why I can not contact for my records etc... I also gave a family history of obesity, cancer, diabetes...I sent this to Karen at BTC and she said it was great and would send in my 1 recent Doctor supervised failure. Best Wishes and Keep Fighting WE ARE WORTH IT! KM
   — Kim M.

July 4, 2001
I know where your at right now I too had to go through the appeal process getting denied twice and finally got approval. I am scheduled on September 13th and am going out of my mind just waiting. In my appeal letter first I introdued myself and explained how being overweight has affected every aspect of my life. Being a mother, wife, daughter etc. and how it has limited me from doing certain things that other people take for granted. I then quoted several articles describing how Morbid Obesity is a recognized treatable condition. Then I outlined my comorbids-and described what kind of treatment I received or am currently being treated for. Then I listed all the diets I could remember being on (Physician supervised definitly helps) and the amount of weight I lost then gained back. I closed with a desperate plea to give me my life back and not sign my death warrant. Most importantly I sent them medical records that supported my letter showing where I had been treated for co-morbids and medically supervised diets. I don't know why you were denied but if it was deemed medically unnecesary then it is going to be up to you to prove them wrong. I had very little help from my Surgeon and none from my PCP....Hope this helps...
   — kristen H.

July 5, 2001
If you are writing an appeal, then you were obviously denied. You need to concentrate on the reason you were denied which was provided in the denial letter. I was also denied and I was approved within one week. Their reason for my denial was pre-existing which I went about proving them wrong. I wish you the best of luck. Do not give up. i believe the ins. co. counts on this. Be determined.
   — [Anonymous]