Question:
Feeling hopeless after 92 days and still no word

I had my consultation with my surgeon 92 days ago. I have not heard a single word from my insurance carrier. I can't very well appeal a denial that I have not gotten. I wish there was a way to hold insurance companies accountable for the emotional tole their stall tactics take on people. My wife and I are expecting our first child after 17 years of marriage. While that makes me very, very happy, I feel as though I am dying a little more each day in wait. What is the longest some of you have had to wait for a response from the insurance company on a precertification? Thanks to all.    — jeff P. (posted on July 13, 2000)

July 13, 2000
I called my insurance company after only 3 weeks. Someone in member services will be able to tell you what the status is. I think you will feel better just knowing that it is being reviewed. I have heard of an aweful lot of cases that "somehow" didn't make it to the insurance company. Generally this is faxed from your doctor to the insurance company and perhaps the fax didn't make it to the right person or the right desk. You call your insurance company right away and get a status check. Don't give up. Congratulations on your new arrival!
   — Tami G.

July 13, 2000
Be very persistent with your insurance company. They are hoping you will get frustrated and "go away". Call them at least once weekly and get people's names - hold them accountable to answering you. Good luck!
   — Paula G.

July 13, 2000
Jeff, you need to contact them. Learn from my mistake. I tried to be nice and patient but after 4 weeks started calling asking them about my status.....after 6 weeks they finally said that it was sent to the wrong branch and they refused to forward it to the correct place. They made my surgeon re-send everything. It has now been over 11 weeks and I finally had to get my state's insurance commissioner involved. I learned that it is safest to follow up on your status because if you assume they are reviewing it you could be in for a BIG disappointment. I wish you the best of luck.
   — Sheila B.