Question:
Do insurance co. reps read these boards? Can they hold info against people?

I totally understand the frustration of getting the runaround or worse, denials from insurance companies. I mean most of us pay through the nose for coverage and its unfair that when we need it, its not always there. I am concerned though with the observation that some people post little 'tricks' they've done to increase their chances of approval by purposely manipulating diabetes testing, co-morbidities or diet histories, etc. I don't so much have a problem with people doing these things but I wonder if by posting in their names, they could be jeopardizing the very approval they are trying so hard to attain. I hope this doesn't offend anyone, its not meant to. Its not a judgement, just a concern.    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 19, 2001)

July 20, 2001
Speaking as a former "insurance rep", it's was all work for decisions are made based on rules/regulations/medical policy and clinical documentation. We didn't take a personal interest in any of the 50-100 active cases we might have. Even if we knew that such a message board existed, searching for info "to get" someone wouldn't even cross anyone's mind. What would be the point? What would the rep say "I'm denying approval for the surgery because obesityhelp.com says.....". That would be a surefire way of getting a pink slip.......
   — margaret N.

July 20, 2001
I'm the paranoid person who posted the original question. Thanks for the responses. Your voices of reason and the light of day make me realize that its just overall anxiety putting all of these "what if's" in my mind. I appreciate the patience and kindness displayed in the answers. I feel kind of silly to have even asked such a question..thank God for the "anonymous" option :)
   — [Anonymous]

July 20, 2001
I rarely post anymous but am for this. Had a stress test the other day, had no symptoms but with sleep apnea my doc wanted the test to be on the safe side. The cardiologist need a reason for the test and grilled me on possible symptoms while I was running on the treadmil. Unable to find any symptom and by this time I was working hard he asked if I was ever short of breath. I replied well I am now and he used that as a diagnosis..... Well waiting for my results in the next room they asked the same question ofb the next patient and got exactly the same response. We shouldnt have to lie to get a test.....
   — [Anonymous]

July 20, 2001
I think its a valid concern. I feel that its my responsibility to be completely truthful in what I submit to my insurance company and Dr. and I will have all I need to back it. We should have all that just to cover our own butts.
   — Dawn R.

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