In the world of medical supplies and equipment, one thing I learned quickly is never rely on anything. Throwing insurance into the mix is a frustration multiplier.
Never rely! I should have heeded my own words. Still, this equipment order seemed in the bag. Being the day of delivery, what could go wrong? Wasn’t I told just 48 hours prior that everything is a go?
The new stander
So, when my phone rang just 90 minutes before the 11:30 AM delivery, my heart sunk. Thinking positive thoughts, I answered “What’s the Good News?”. I’m not sure about you, but hearing a person say they have good news and bad news is, well, never good news.
First, the good news. The standing table is approved and will arrive at 11:00. Yipee!
Now, the bad news. The exercise table is built, in inventory, and ready to go, but insurance denied it because it isn’t beneficial. Wasn’t this submitted to Medicaid? Nope. Beautiful.
It turns out that insurance doesn’t see the benefit of an exercise table. Now, I’m no expert… wait, I am an expert … but, how is it there can be no benefit? Are you kidding me? It affords nearly unlimited positioning, prevents blood clots, improves respiratory health, mobility, cognition, reduces urinary tract infections, provides a surface for bathing, is much safer, and the list goes on.
Insurance, in their silly wisdom, claims this can all be done in his bed. I suppose this seems logical to anyone who hasn’t actually been in or treated a coma. I simply cannot achieve the same benefit on a mattress. Thinking from another angle, I would never use an exercise table to perform the functions of a bed.
Ugh!
I would appeal it! And check with the Dr and see if they can try to help you out. This is something that you really need and they need to help you out with that. Hope all goes well and they give you a better answer! Prayers Continueing Your Way!
Why not send the information to your senator, congressman and President Obama?? Aren’t they all big on health care for everyone?? Let them help get this for Ryan. My BC/BS just went up $100/month for no reason for our family… “in anticipation of Obamacare” according to the BC/BS rep. Go for it Ken!
Invite them over and have them show you. Tell them to count on a whole day, because that is what it usually takes! Your wife will be so pleased to read your last sentence. Are you trying to get yourself out of the doghouse?
Hahahahaha!
I was thinking the same thing, Sam! Too funny… Oh, and I love how Duke is checking out the new standing table. I’m sure he approves of whatever equipment Ryan needs. Smart dog!
Oh my Heavens….
The health insurance industry drives me nuts. Your story is similar to an experience I had when my oldest was born. Before we had her, we did a pre-authorization for hospital stay, knowing that a baby was coming. After she was born, she was ill and had to stay in the hospital for 6 days and the insurance company denied the $10,000+ bill because “this child is not on the policy.” “Well no sh**!!!!!! Why did you think we did the pre-authorization???” Just another way they can delay the process so they can hold onto their money longer. I feel for you. But Hey! I have an idea…..why don’t we petition the Vantreases and the Mays for the cost of this table. They owe you $$$ – let’s let them start repaying you on behalf of their sons. Just sayin…..
Remember that movie The Rainmaker? The insurance representatives are trained to deny, deny, deny coverage wherever possible. The health insurers are notorious for this. I’m sorry – it must be so frustrating.
p.s. I love that you answered the phone “what’s the good news?” I’m going to try that myself ; )
Welcome to the world of Medicaid Insurance, it’s not your average insurance company. You can appeal, but expect a long wait. It took over one year to get an electric wheel chair for a friend of mine.
Fight them, Ken!! Get support from any doctors you can — don’t give up!! The insurance company is being greedy and cold — for shame!! Be the squeaky wheel!! And by the way, how much is this table???? Ryan needs it, somehow we need to get it!!
As far as I know, their decisions (refusals) can be appealed. Good luck. At lease you received the standing table. Still here.
This makes me so angry, I can’t even spell “least!” LOL Hope by today you have made progress in your appeal. Yeah! Go Ken!