I’m a former TV investigative reporter. People often called me to help resolve their problems. Some complaints were baseless. Some I resolved behind the scenes. Others led to on-air special reports. Now I sometimes share our consumer experiences, knowing others likely have faced similar situations. We also believe sharing these stories is part of the essence of social media.
A health insurance company says it declined me coverage due to information in my medical records I had never heard of before. How is this scenario possible?
Our healthcare broker indicated this is an important matter to resolve. The medical records information previously unknown to us could prevent me from obtaining in the future both health and life insurance.
“Obamacare!!!” wrote a Facebook fan.
I don’t understand why he connects my situation and healthcare reform.
“Someone stole your ID?” asked another Facebook fan.
I don’t think anyone stole my ID. Someone at the doctor’s office confirmed the information in question is in my records. She said she did not understand the meaning of the information. I asked to talk to the doctor. She said she would leave a message for the doctor’s medical assistant.
A Facebook friend wrote, “Our new insurance did the same thing to [my wife] and she is the single healthiest person I know…by a long shot.”
Another Facebook friend posted, “Unbelievable. Fight it!”
“Be very PRO ACTIVE!!!” wrote another on Facebook.
As of writing this, neither the doctor nor his medical assistant called me back. I’ll keep you posted.
Update: I talked on the phone with the doctor. He is surprised the insurance company denied me coverage due to the information in my medical records. He says the information in question falls within the normal range. He will write a letter I can submit to the insurance company as part of my appeal.
Update: Doctor writes letter stating I’m in excellent health and clarifies misinformation.