Anyone who has tried to contact their insurance provider knows that there are layers upon layers of people, departments and subcontractors to whom they are referred.
Task a day insurance: I learned this one the hard way. Get written confirmation from any "voice" on the end of the line who assures you of coverage after you follow insurance company step of notifying them that you plan to use a specific service.
Be specific, tell them you need a confirmation that authorizes the treatment and reimbursement for that treatment that also includes any other specific hoops you will have to jump through such as receipts. Understand that HIPAA does not always protect you from having to share results from testing..including the results of psychological testing in order to be eligible for reimbursement.
The second thing to know is that subcontractors, for instance companies that handle the assessments of need for long term care are operating as AGENTS of the insurer. This is a good thing because your INSURER is responsible for the actions of its subcontractor in many instances. In reality, the INSURER will try to claim ignorance so make sure every contact you have with the subcontractor is also communicated to the insurer.
It's not ECO friendly, but you need a file, a copy, a written word of everything that transpires.
Some may keep it on their computers, some using loads of paper, but the file is worth it. Don't worry if it's not perfect, keep the paperwork.
The answer to the RUNAROUND is that TURNAROUND is fair play. Start your own campaign of writing and notifying your insurer. For you, it will only require sending additional copies of your communications. If you think something fishy is going on allege it, you're probably onto something and as long as you insert the words, I believe it seems like....you're fine.
Make these papers part of your PHR. The PHR, the personal health record is encouraged to put the onus on patients to keep track of their medical prescriptions, conditions, etc. The good news is that a lot of this will be taken care of by keeping track of your money because insurance statements include what you were charged for in the first place.
