Question:
Has anybody ever had their surgery scheduled before they got approval?

Hey guys, I'm freaking out because I just found out I have a date -Feb.8th- but they also said that they haven't gotten insurance approval yet, but not to worry about it. I don't know what that means? Has anybody ever had this happen to them?!?! Also what do I do to calm myself down, I'm terrified and excited at the same time! And it's seriously overwhelming!! Thanks a bunch - have a nice day!    — Jennifer M. (posted on January 23, 2002)

January 23, 2002
I think it's pretty normal to get a surgery date before insurance approval. Many surgeons [mine included] have surgery waiting lists over 3 or 4 months long. I had my surgery date 6 months ahead of time, and my insurance paperwork wasn't sent in until one month before surgery. I got approved in only a few days. I was also very nervous waiting for the surgeon's office to submit the paperwork. However, they were experienced with my insurance company, and the office was right. No problem with approval at all.
   — Kathy J.

January 23, 2002
Hi Jennifer, My surgery was scheduled before the paperwork was ever sent to the insurance company. I didn't know that I was approved until 3 weeks before surgery. Once they sent the papers in I was approved in 2 days. Most doctor's offices know which insurance companies will give them a hard time. Good luck. Vicki Mize
   — vmize

January 23, 2002
I didn't get the final approval until the Friday before my surgery on Wednesday. I was freaking out. But then found out that they just needed one piece of paperwork. Ask your doctor's office, I'm sure they have already contacted your insurance company.
   — Elizabeth A.