I'm frankly in the middle of a medical nightmare. At the end of June, when I went up to Grass Valley, my back was bothering me, I didn't move around that much while there, but also didn't see a Dr. there, preferring to see the spinal surgeon who previously treated me on returning. I saw him roughly a week after returning while also helping my wife who broke three ribs and had a great deal of pain.
My Dr. needing to know what's wrong inside ordered an MRI. Insurance after nearly 3 weeks turned down the MRI indicating that I wasn't under treatment long enough. The pain management specialist in his office wanted the MRI to know where it's best to administer a shot of cortisone to hopefully provide relief .
Now most of the pain has migrated to the legs, it's sciatica, I'm now using a cane, and while looking for other possibilities, the Dr. is saying they can't appeal for several more weeks based on the insurances rules. I don't believe this is how our healthcare system is supposed to work.
I may see if a spinal can be administered without the MRI, it's also been suggested I go to the emergency room who might be able to do something else. Some bean counter may be following the rules as they are interpreting them, but I can't believe that's what's intended.
I know MRI's aren't cheap, but they show what's wrong. An ER may take an X-ray, it won't be definitive, and it will simply add cost, but if nothing else will work, I will do it. I'm also tempted to try to raise attention to this sort of treatment, it sounds like something I'd expect in a third world country, not the US, but that seems to be where we are.
Anyway, if you wonder why I've not been a vocal as normal, I've been sleeping far later in the day as the pain is almost gone when lying on my back. I still feel confident that approval is coming, and I wouldn't be surprised if it's here before I'm properly treated for my back.
Gary
Bullish
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