Question:
How long does it REALLY take for UHC to approve/deny?

Hi, my pre-determination letter has FINALLY reached UHC (4/15) and it's been sent to the "committee" for review as of 4/16. I was told a decision would be made in about a week or so. Is this pretty much how it went for fellow UHC members? I've read here about people with UHC were approved in 4 hours (?!!!) Is that normal? I just want some other UHC members opinions if they think things are moving at a normal pace for me so far based on their own experiences.    — kathleen-Joan piper (posted on April 18, 2003)

April 18, 2003
I was approved for surgery in a week and a half. I have UCH PPO. HOM's are different. I'm adding that because I'm not too sure which plan you have. Good Luck to you!!!
   — Adele S.

April 18, 2003
I was approved in 2 weeks with UHC Select Plus POS. I feel so fortunate to have such a WLS friendly ins co.
   — Sandy T.

April 18, 2003
Two weeks to the day! I have UHC select thru Proctor and Gamble Mfg.
   — Delores S.

April 19, 2003
I have UHC Select Plus POS....was approved in 4 days. That was at the beginning of December, 2002. I think a lot of it has to do with their caseload at the time.
   — Amy W.

April 19, 2003
I am also waiting approval from UHC Options PPO. I have found through the numerous calls I've made that it depends where you live and what employer as to where the information goes. It sounds like they are backed up some, but I was told that it would take around 2 weeks possible longer. My information was sent on 3/28 and finally received at UHC on 4/8. They did tell me to call weekly to see if any information had been input into the computer as to acceptance or denial. At any rate, I don't have an answer yet, so I think the answer to your questions (at least in my case) would be that it's normal to take that long. Good luck!
   — laura J.

April 20, 2003
I was approved in three weeks,but my friend that has the exact same insurance was denied.They told her it that gastric bypass was not covered in our policy.She had her Doctorand Btc send in letters.They approved it in less than 2 weeks.Ours is a PPO,Good luck
   — madbird