Meet Phil.
While undergoing treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, his employer switched health plans January 1st. The old insurer had approved a plan of care that the new insurer wanted to review.
Seems reasonable.
Unless you’re Phil and your doctor’s health system cancels scheduled appointments until they can be assured of payment.
I try and meet with every employee when our clients make changes to their plans, ‘promising’ to be their advocate if things go south. That being the case with Phil, he asked for my help.
First I contacted the health system oncology and radiation department. They were unwavering in their demands for payment and uncompassionate jerks!
Concurrently, I worked with the new insurer to expedite a review of Phil’s case. Within days, his treatment was approved, his doctors contacted, and his appointments rescheduled.
That was about a month ago. I’ve checked in with Phil a couple of times since then. He’s working and otherwise leading a ‘normal’ life. Shaken of course by this episode, he’s nevertheless happy with both his new insurance coverage and his doctors.
I’m not. Can you guess why? Next week I’ll explain.
