united healthcare denied back surgery christmas eve

[u/lavendersucculents]

Hi, all merry Christmas. I do hope I posted this in the right subReddit and I do deeply apologize if this is not the correct I subreddit for this, but I’m at a loss. I recently received an email last night on Christmas Eve at 10 PM that UHC are denying a very needed back surgery that was scheduled for the 27th. I’ve already been kind of bullying United healthcare in social media trying to get somebody to call me back and explain to me as to why they’re denying it. I’ve also had very bad experience with United healthcare and their customer service before so I’m just very wary. I tried to appeal the first denial for minor back procedure earlier this year, but it didn’t go anywhere so I’m just wondering if anybody has any experience on how to properly file an appeal or has had any experience doing this? For context, I am a 31-year-old female, I have a severe disc herniation. I’ve already done physical therapy rounds twice and I’ve done two rounds of shots with epidural and Cortizone, which did not help. I’ve had three doctors recommend the surgery for me.

[u/Adventurous-Ant8067]

Back in 2019 I was in dire need of cervical surgery and was sitting at the hospital for 17 hours while the doctors and staff tried to get it approved with no success. I had lost complete use of my left arm due to ruptured disc in my neck. After a good cry and going to another doctor I found out they would not approve surgery originally because of the numerous malpractice suits against the doctor and that he was installing his own licensed hardware and filming the surgeries as a sales tool. The denial was a blessing! I did get my surgery from a highly reputable surgeon and made a full recovery. It’s ok to be upset with your insurance but they have their reasons too. Wishing you the best and highly recommend a second opinion if not approved