Although scheduled for weeks at a world class Center of Excellence, just 24 hours before the big day, ‘Nick’ was told to contact his health insurer because they still hadn’t approved the surgery.

Think that’s bad?

Sedated and waiting in his hospital room literally minutes from being wheeled down the hall to the OR, ‘Andy’s’ surgeon stopped in - I can’t make this s#%t up -  as a “courtesy” to let him know some parts of the procedure might be self-pay because they hadn’t been approval by the health plan! 

Good time for Nick and Andy to throw the red challenge flag!! (Get it yet?)

You (or the ‘Super’ Agent called in desperation for help) can’t possibly have all the diagnostic codes, lingo and records needed by your health insurers for pre-certification. 

Providers may not like this drill but it’s their responsibility. (As acknowledged by one HERE.)

BTW, under current regulations, Nick and Andy should have received written approval well in advance of their scheduled surgeries. 

So until that letter arrives, assume the worst and lean on your providers to do their job.

And now, for the two point conversion; who were Vince and Hank?