Question:
What can I do to help speed along this process?

I live in NH and my insurer is CIGNA Healthcare, HMO. My PCP is sending her referral now to the Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic in Lebanon NH, about 1.5 hrs away from my home. I'm just wondering what I can do to help speed this along, as I may have a potential insurance problem within the next 9 months (may need to move, which means leaving my job and insurance). How long should I wait to call, and who should I call? Should I call my PCP to see when the referral was submitted? What happens after that? How do I go from a referral letter to a Surgeon's consulation? How do I go from the consultation to getting approved by insurance? I already know I'll be completely covered if approved. I don't want to be a pest, but I don't want people to sit on the requests, either. Also, does anyone know how possible it is, with Cigna, to take care of much of my Pre-Op appointments locally? Does anyone know what Dr. Burchard requires? Or Cigna? I know I've asked alot of questions....any help would be greatly appreciated! I respect and admire each and every person on this site, including myself, for having the courage to at least think about taking this huge step for themselves, or for volunteering their support to others. Thank you, and good luck to all! Katrina    — Katrina W. (posted on January 11, 2002)

January 12, 2002
These are all good questions that can be best answered by!!! ATENDING SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS! You have no idea how great a help these are, not only for helping with the mechanics like your insurance questions but dealing with the emotional issues before surgery. Please attend...
   — bob-haller

January 12, 2002
I really don't have any answers for you, but I say BE A PEST. Who cares if you annoy someone...this is YOUR body and you are on a quest to do something about it. I personally wouldn't worry if someone got annoyed at me pestering them. Call every single day if you have to. Or at least every few days to see if anything has changed. Good luck!!!
   — A. S.