Question:
Medicare says that my Dr. will do the surgery then submit the bill to Medicare,

Without a preapproval? My Dr. says all I have to do is meet the criterion, but I see so many people saying "approved after 1st letter" on the insurance pages. So what's up? I even called medicare directly, & they said that the Dr. - even if he doesn't accept assignment of benefits - can only charge me a "limiting charge" = to 15% more, & that may be covered by medigap. Then the Dr. will submit the claim for reimbursement. I guess my worry is, what if they don't approve - then am I responsible for the costs? That's where all that "approved after 1st letter" is scaring me. Then I see feedback from folks who say their Dr. handled it all, & no letter was necessary. Please help!    — Jay P. (posted on September 19, 2001)

September 22, 2001
If you are covered by Medicare then you have no worries. Medicare covers automatically anyone that needs this surgery. I know as I draw medicare. I also would like to talk to you about the docs you asked about. I live not far from you in Mississippi.
   — Melody F.