I can't believe that the incredible appeal we submitted to the insurance company has been denied - again. At UCSD, it is possible to private pay for the HIPEC portion but, I *think* they said that the entire procedure would not be covered if HIPEC a part of it... kinda like voiding the warranty if you "chip" your truck. But, just in case I misunderstood, I am double checking this.
The appeal was written by a medical expert/researcher (thanks LP) who consulted Laurie Todd, The Insurance Warrior. In fact, Laurie Todd thought we would win the appeal; I guess she doesn't know this insurance company! AND, (as you know) since we've been trying to get approval since September..... Blakes had to go back on chemo AND, the 1st chemo landed him in the hospital!
For the last few months, I've been trying so hard to remember that while things sometimes suck, they haven't always been horrible. He's successfully fought this beast for 3+ years. However, in the past month, we've lost 3 people that we've come to know through colon cancer. Two were diagnosed 1 year after Blake and the other was only 2 months before. It's hard to remain positive about the time we've had and the time we're going to have when some damn insurance company tries to limit it!
What I want to know is WHO died and made them (IHC) boss? I'm upset. I'm sad. I'm scared. Blake is rolling with the punches and will receive another dose of poisen tomorrow. I love this strong, honorable man.
Thanks for *listening*
Love, Kathy
P.S. Maybe this is our sign that the procedure shouldn't be done..... but, shouldn't it still be Blake's decision?
YES.... it should be his choice! Remember your not alone on this roller coaster we call life. I don't know if I speak for anyone besides myself but, my thinking is "One day at a time" and thats all I can hope for. Chin up my friend's. We are here for you!
ReplyDeleteR&L
…..ditto! We love you oodles, G & C
ReplyDeleteSome days there won't be a song in your heart. Sing anyway. ~Emory Austin
I'm so sorry Kathy about the stress you're going through on fighting insurance companies. It's an ongoing, full time battle. I haven't won on anything yet with my appeals and all. There are medications and treatments out there that would give me a better quality of life also, but the don't give a shit! Sorry, but I hate that insurances can dictate our quality of life or even if we live or die. I wish you the best. You and Blake are always in my prayers. I admire the strength and love you both have. Take care and God bless you both and your family.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I don't think it's a sign that it shouldn't be done, but a sign that big changes need to be made with insurance companies so they cannot override the doctors decisions on prescribing procedures, treatments and medications that they know may help.
ReplyDeleteThanks Tammy! I completely agree with you. Someday, our efforts will be rewarded and these treatments will become standard-of-care. In the meantime, we just have to keep fighting!
ReplyDeleteLove to you & your family!