Guaranteed Healthcare

I'm at my wits end. I've been dealing with Degenerative Disk Disease and Cervical stenosis for almost 10 years now. The past 2 years have been the worst. I've been through all the non-surgical treatments possible to try to get this under control. I have seen many Dr.s, all suggesting a cervical disc replacement. After detailed searches on the Prestige disc, I decided this was the best for me. My Ortho Surgeon agrees. BCBS disagrees.

Even though the disc is approved by the FDA, and its the best possible course of action for me, per my doctors, BCBS of Illinois believes it knows better and is denying. They say it's investigational, but I know of people through my research, that have been approved by BCBS. How can one person be investigational and another not. I'm in daily pain. Even a trip to the grocery store 2 miles away will trigger intense pain. I'm an avid gardener and was basically an active, happy person. These days, not so happy and not so active. With spring around the corner, depression is sinking in knowing I will not be able to tend to my gardens like they need to be. I have had Better Homes and Gardens come out to consider my gardens for publication. They are interested. They will be coming back to do photo shoots. How can I prepare for this when I'm in constant pain?

BCBS holds my lifestyle in their hands. This does not sit well with me. My family suffers also. They need their wife, mom and aunt back. I miss many social gatherings due to the pain or fear of causing pain from the drive to the event. It appalls me that insurance companies are the final decision makers for people who pay for their services. We pay for their services only to be told we can't receive the medical and surgery required to improve our lives. A doctors opinion should be the deciding factor..not the insurance companies.

I know there are many others dealing with this situation. I try to frequent various websites and groups online dealing with spine issues. I cannot sit at the computer much lately to continue searching as it triggers pain. Some insurance companies approve this surgery, others do not. I don't understand this. If a surgery or procedure is approved by the FDA, is recommended by the treating physician, how can BCBS and others deny it. I'm in appeal, and will continue to appeal. Thanks for listening.