Finding an Insurance Expert for Surgical Preauthorization
You want more than to just get through the process
If you don’t already know, Lipedema surgery is a difficult journey. And that’s putting it mildly.
In an ideal world, we would have surgeons who are in-network with our insurance plan, even a few that we could choose from, and have a reasonable turnaround time for consult and surgery dates. The entire preauthorization process would be completed by the surgeon’s office or billing staff.
And if we had to go to a surgeon who wasn’t listed in our insurance plan, then their office would still obtain the preauthorization, the gap exception, and the single-case agreement.
But we don’t live in that ideal world right now.
The current expectation is for the patient to facilitate their own insurance approval. This is ridiculous! The regular patient doesn’t have that kind of experience.
The preauthorization process is an emotional rollercoaster that can tax you. It doesn’t help that the legit Lipedema surgeons are booked out for months, even over a year, just for a consult.
If you’re in the process, I highly recommend getting a patient advocate and insurance expert to guide you through this process and help you get preauthorized.
Most (including me) will charge you a fee to complete the entire insurance process, but the money is worth it if you choose a supportive and professional expert. There are more and more advocates out there, so don’t think you’re forced to use only one. Do your due diligence and find someone who fits you!