Question:
How to write a letter to Insurance for pre-authorization for arm surgery?

My plastic surgeon does not bill insurances for brachioplasty but he agreed to bill them and take payment if I got the procedure authorized. I am not sure how what the procedure for this is or what kind of information is needed and/or included in the letter in order to be sucessful in getting it authorized. Please help. Thanx. P. S. I have Blue Cross of CA PPO.    — Bertha A. (posted on April 15, 2004)

April 15, 2004
It is VERY hard to get insurance coverage for brachioplasty. I would document any shoulder or arm pain, rashes, difficulty finding clothes that fit properly,limited mobility or exercise ability, low self esteem and altered self image.Good luck.
   — dianne E.

April 15, 2004
My insurance company denied my brachioplasty. I had rashes under my arms and even went to a dermatologist. You need to show where the excess skin causes problems for you (emotional doesn't count). If you have rashes, go to your PCP and have him document it in his files, take pictures of the rashes under your arms, see a dermatologist and have him give you medication and document the problem, if the problem isn't clearing up after medication this needs to be indicated as well. That's pretty much your best shot at getting it covered and it's a long shot at best.
   — Patty H.