How to Pay for Surgery When Insurance Doesn't

Alternative Treatments

Alternative Treatments Alternatives to Hysterectomy Surgery The proliferation of hysterectomies has led to numerous questions regarding both its necessity and the overwhelming repercussions it poses to women. As more than 600,000 women in the United States undergo this procedure each year, the general public and medical community has voiced concern over the essential question of whether a hysterectomy is always needed in these types of cases. While it certainly may be a necessity in some cases and…

Basics of Undergoing a Hysterectomy

Basics of Undergoing a Hysterectomy What You Need to Know As with undergoing any major medical procedure, being well informed is a top priority when considering a hysterectomy. The second most common surgery for women after C-sections, hysterectomies are performed frequently throughout the world. In America, it is estimated that one out of every three women may undergo this procedure before the age of 60. Although safe, a hysterectomy does entail some risks and can certainly impact the lives of…

Before a Hysterectomy

Before a Hysterectomy Questions to Ask Before Hysterectomy Surgery As a hysterectomy can certainly be a stressful experience, taking steps to understand the procedure, what to expect, and whether it is right for you should always be a priority. From weighing all of your available options and alternative treatments to considering the ways in which this procedure can affect your life physically and emotionally, it becomes clear that there is much to think about before making a decision. At Hysterectomy.com,…

Life After a Hysterectomy

Life After a Hysterectomy Navigating the Healing Process A serious medical procedure that poses risks and physical side effects, hysterectomy surgery also entails a number of emotional implications that have the ability to impact your life in numerous, profound, and deeply personal ways. As you prepare for life after hysterectomy or as you begin to navigate the new changes after surgery, ensuring that you know what to expect and that you have access to the information and support you need is important…

Recovering From Hysterectomy Surgery

Recovering From Hysterectomy Surgery After the Procedure While the type of hysterectomy surgery performed and the underlying condition at hand will always impact your recovery after a hysterectomy surgery, there are some general effects and challenges all women can expect after this procedure. As always, personally reviewing what you can expect with your doctor will ensure that you have information that relates specifically to your situation. After Surgery Depending on the procedure you undergo,…

How to Avoid a Hysterectomy Surgery

How to Avoid a Hysterectomy Surgery Prevention, Intervention & Understanding Your Options Hysterectomy surgery is often a matter of personal choice. Although some conditions may dictate treatment and make a hysterectomy a medical necessity, many women now have a number of options to choose from when it comes to finding safe and effective treatments for their particular condition. If you are interested in exploring ways in which your medical condition can be safely resolved without a hysterectomy,…

Hysterectomy Surgery Risks

Hysterectomy Surgery Risks Knowing What to Expect When considering hysterectomy surgery, understanding the benefits and risks is essential to making a well-informed decision. Although every woman should assess whether or not hysterectomy is the right choice on an individual basis, it is important to understand that all types of hysterectomy surgeries will entail some inherent risks. On a general basis, a hysterectomy will pose similar risks and complications associated with any major surgery,…

Types of Hysterectomy Surgeries

Types of Hysterectomy Surgeries Understanding Your Options For any woman who has been informed by their doctor that their condition can be treated with a hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus, it is important to understand that options are available. Taking preemptive measures to research, collect information, engage in discussions with your doctor, and explore all available means and methods is crucial to making an informed decision that is right for you. As hysterectomy surgeries vary in…

Reasons for a Hysterectomy

Reasons for a Hysterectomy Conditions & Disorders Strong social opinions muddled by a numerous misconceptions have made hysterectomy a procedure shrouded in misinformation and uncertainty. Once used as a standard in the treatment of numerous female reproductive conditions, increased awareness about various medical conditions as well as advances in medical science and viable treatment alternatives have contributed to our collective knowledge about hysterectomy. In general terms, hysterectomy…

Hysterectomy Surgery FAQ

In addition to exacerbating difficulties in diagnosing conditions and assessing treatment options, the lack of awareness surrounding hysterectomy surgery and the various medical conditions it is used to treat can also contribute to problems with insurance coverage. Living with uncomfortable and painful symptoms can be a daily source of strain, and as difficult as considering a hysterectomy may be, facing insurance problems can add insult to injury. The following information can help you navigate the insurance aspect of undergoing this procedure.

Understanding Insurance Companies
What all women must realize is that insurance companies are not doctors. Their efforts and energy, in most cases, are focused on their bottom line, and they take great care in not only defending themselves against exorbitant costs but also in preventing the amount of "medically unnecessary" procedures that they subsidize. It may seem as though classifying a hysterectomy in the same medically unnecessary category as cosmetic procedures is unfair, and in many cases, it may very well be, but that does happen.

It is important to understand that insurance companies make errors or lack necessary information when assessing whether a hysterectomy surgery is medically necessary. Additionally, the fact that many studies have estimated that anywhere from 10 to 90 percent of hysterectomies can be considered medically unnecessary can cause insurance companies to scrutinize your case with a biased mindset.

What You Can Do
Whatever the particular cause may be, and regardless of the motivations insurance companies may have, you should never give up in your efforts to seek coverage, especially when other treatments have failed, when your doctor (and / or a second opinion) confirm that the procedure is viable in your case, or when you believe that this is your best option. Many women who have been denied choose to be proactive about the matter by writing letters to their insurance providers explaining their story, their history of treatment, and why the procedure is necessary in their case. Your doctor may also be able to assist you by supplying their medical opinion, conducting and / or providing additional tests, and showing that other treatment options have failed. Asking about an appeals process can also benefit your efforts to obtain coverage.

When insurance providers balk, are reluctant, or deny payment for your procedure, do not allow the experience to bring you down. Many women facing this situation find themselves in the same predicament and, fortunately, they have exemplified that with persistence and a proactive attitude, these obstacles can be overcome. Some women find that they are also able to negotiate or find ways in which the insurance company will be willing to pay for at least some of the procedure or hospital costs. You do not have to settle for paying full price, especially when it will place added strain on your family's financial and personal well-being.

In some cases, insurance companies may offer to pay for other treatments, usually less-expensive options. If you have not been treated for your condition with these or other alternatives, then it may become an opportunity to discuss alternatives with your doctor or a second doctor. In addition to saving costs, it may also provide you with safe and effective treatment without the more drastic risks and repercussions associated with a hysterectomy surgery. Electing to undergo alternatives, however, is a personal decision you should make with your doctor.

Gain Access to a Network of Support

If your insurance provider has denied coverage for your hysterectomy surgery, do not lose hope. Be proactive, gather information, and work closely with your doctor to exhaust your options. As numerous women in the very same situation as you have encountered similar obstacles, you can also tap into our website's network of support by reaching out to other women and sharing your story on our message boards. Find the support you need to transcend these obstacles. Complete a contact form or visit our Hysterectomy.com forums today.

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