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Anne G.
Clearwater, FL, USA
Surgery date scheduled - BMI: 47.2
Surgery Type: RNY
Member ID: Genovese935025281
Surgeon: Ernest Rehnke, M.D.

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Hello! I am thirty-one years old and I currently weigh 250lbs. I gained my weight over the last ten years; so yes I do remember the lean times. My BMI is 48 and I also have several co-morbidities. The two that concern me the most are my high cholesterol and my severe depression.

Currently, (10/05/99) I have completed all the preliminary steps in order to have my surgery. I was set to go on Oct 22, however, Cigna Hmo denied me. There reason was that I did not have sufficient documentation from my Weight Watchers information. I had to laugh! :) Of all the lame reason to deny me, this will be one of the easiest to fight. They may have won the battle but they haven't won the war!!! I'll keep you updated.

(01/11/00) I have not updated lately because I had received only bad news from Cigna, and to be perfectly honest I was extremely discouraged. HOWEVER, today is a wonderful day!!! I have been approved!!! I received my second denial through the mail right before Christmas. I was so upset I immediately sat down an wrote a very powerful letter. I expected no results from this letter; I only wrote it to relieve my emotions. As it turns out, the letter did the trick. If anyone has use for a response letter to a denial, I'd be happy to supply mine. I have changed my e-mail address. I know there were some people who wrote to me and I appologize that I did not respond. I changed sights without saving several of my addresses.

(01/13/00) I've scheduled my surgery for February 15, 2000. Guess what will be on my mind for the next month! :)


Surgeon Info:
Surgeon: Ernest Rehnke, M.D.
I have met Dr. Rehnke one time for my initial consultation. I immediately liked him and felt very comfortable. Of course, like everyone else, I have been dealing with the HELL of the ins. company (Cigna HMO). The office staff has been extremely patient with my numerous calls in regards to getting the surgery approved. Patty especially- I owe my thanks! (01/11/00) I have been dealing with one wonderful individual at Dr. Rehnke's office; her name is Patty. For the past four months she has patiently helped me. I'm sure I've called her at least 30 times. I can't thank her enough!
Insurer Info:
Cigna
(01/11/00) Dealing with Cigna in the beginning was awful. I received no direct answers to my questions about what was acceptable documentation for "supervised diets". I do feel that persistence is the key to dealing with them. I also wrote a very strong letter when denied a second time. This I believe is what pushed me over the top.