Question:
Denied by Cigna-POS- no proof of diet- How strict are they with this rule?

I was just denied by Cigna POS becuase I had no proof of a Dr. Supervised diet in the last 12 months. I have dieted in the last 12 months and my dr. knew about it, but there was really no follow up. Only one return visit. How strict have you found Cigna is with this rule? I was thinking of writing my own appeal and I have conntacted my Primary care Dr. to write a letter of medical history including diet appts. What was your experience with this? Should I write my own appeal or just let the Dr. take care of getiing the approvals.    — Stephanie H. (posted on July 10, 2002)

July 10, 2002
Cigna is VERY strick with this rule in VA. Luckily I knew about it ahead of time and got with my primary care physician and started the 12 week program. I was approved after one denial for the lack of completion and then I filed proof I had completed it.
   — Cathy S.

July 11, 2002
CIGNA POS varies from state-to-state and from employer-to-employer. I have it in Ohio through BP and they gave me all sorts of crap over not having lengthy diet history that I could prove. Then when I'd had it and was ranting and raving, the nurse said, "There, that's what we needed." I couldn't understand and asked her and she said it was when I explained that I had been married for 20 years to a man who didn't work often and had no money or insurance, etc. and that CIGNA POS was the first good insurance I'd had in years. That explained why I hadn't attend Jenny Craig, etc., etc. See if you have any good reasons such as this and maybe that will help. I got my approval that same day as my ranting.
   — Nell C.

July 11, 2002
CIGNA POS varies from state-to-state and from employer-to-employer. I have it in Ohio through BP and they gave me all sorts of crap over not having lengthy diet history that I could prove. Then when I'd had it and was ranting and raving, the nurse said, "There, that's what we needed." I couldn't understand and asked her and she said it was when I explained that I had been married for 20 years to a man who didn't work often and had no money or insurance, etc. and that CIGNA POS was the first good insurance I'd had in years. That explained why I hadn't attend Jenny Craig, etc., etc. See if you have any good reasons such as this and maybe that will help. I got my approval that same day as my ranting. --- Nelly
   — Nell C.

July 11, 2002
I have Cigna HMO and was told that unless you have *PROOF* they will not give an inch. I had my PCP write a letter explaining that I saw her every 3 months but Cigna DEMANDS weekly weight ins.I started weight watchers (again) because I did not have proof of my failed attempts. Why would keep that????? Anyway, good luck to you and keep the Faith.
   — Siddy I.

August 17, 2002
I was also denied by Cigna for the same reason. I am now going to call my surgeon on Monday and tell him that I have been to weightwatchers and overeaters annonomous and see if they will send in another letter for me. I cannot believe this. I am sooo mad! I would call your surgeon or PCP and do the same thing!
   — Jill W.