What's next for the insurance industry: Pre-authorizations required for defibrillator procedures?

I had mentioned the biopsy taken during the surgery to remove the enlarged lymph node. During the surgery, the lymph node could not be found, but the biopsy revealed that more cancer was found in my gum and jaw.

I was taken back. I had honestly felt I was on the rode to recovery. I was ready to call myself a "survivor." I cannot do that now.

What's next for me is a complete PET Scan to reveal how extensive the cancer is and where it may have traveled to.

The PET Scan is scheduled for Wednesday, November 12. The insurance company, however, threw us a major curve ball:

This was taken directly from my facebook page:

We may have a hold up thanks to the insurance company. Evidently, they need pre-approval for the PET Scan. The hospital office called today and said they are doing all they can to submit the paperwork, but if it does not go through, I have to sign responsibility for the bill. That is not possible, I could never afford it. So what does this mean? The cancer blue meanies will have a great time spreading to any part of my body they want to while we wait for the insurance company. That is so wrong. They are supposed to be concerned about my health. This is my life we are talking about. I don't see that they really care.

Here are some responses:

Phil: The insurance companies have earned your anger..... Praying that God keeps everything under control until the insurance company and the hospital gets their heads out of their collective back ends....... The stress that they are put you and Vida through is totally unnecessary.

Joe: Rule number one: worry about bills later. Seriously.

Karen: I have had cancer, spent almost a year at Duke University Medical Center, and I know your plight. Focus on your health and sign whatever you have to in order to get the treatment you need. Your health is your wealth, the money stuff will work itself out.

Shelaine: Call the insurance company and tell them it's a life-threatening situation. Demand immediate action. If you get the run around, ask the person how would they feel if the roles were reversed. Bombard the insurance company with e-mails. Let them know you need immediate treatment.

Wendy: Let the insurance company know that the doctor made a mistake and now you need a PET scan to see what he missed. You will have approval within a few days.

Eric: Joe's rule #1 is spot on.
It's OK to get frustrated and vent too brotha, better out than in I always say. I liked to scream into a paper bag or make fun of people on the internet

Cammie: I agree Bruce. I know this is tough decisions but nothing is more important right now that stopping this Cancer!!! We will do fundraisers, beg, borrow & plead for your health and for your life! Anytime! I think this needs to happen anyway-you needn't worry about money-only about your life & Vida Bolyard Larson many prayers!

Marlane: Awful to hear this. The added stress alone is horrible at a time when one feels vulnerable enough. I have known this to happen to many people...praying this get resolved...and the test is approved...no one could afford the high cost of these tests...the co-pays are high enough...

Lance: I am thinking about you Sir.

Tammy: That is horrible!! Praying for u & hoping one day karma gets these dam insurance companies!!

Michele: Bruce... I am Praying God's miracles for you! In Jesus Name and by His stripes and healing power! Amen

Karen: Listen to the advice above. Praying for you.

Cherie: Praying for you

Rhonda: You're in my prayers

Carla: Insurance companies - so rich but lacks compassion

Susie: My God, unreal!

Estelle: I don't know the American system, but honestly this sounds barbaric! Get the scans and let them sue you later or something. Just get the treatment stuff DONE first. They can't take it back off you can they

Diana: Unbelievable praying for you!!

Richard: Ive heard so many cases over the years of insurance companies letting people suffer of die because they want their money. I hope you get better soon bruce

David: Praying for you Bruce.

Shirley: Praying for you and Vida. Bruce I had no insurance when I was first diagnosed in 2006. With God's help and a lot of faith I signed repayment agreements and had my first surgery. I managed to pay it off. Many surgeries later I have insurance and I am making payments again on the most recent surgery. A never ending cycle.

Maxine: So sorry you have to deal with this.

Bruce G. Larson Based on all of your comments and suggestions, Vida called the surgeon's office. They are going to get with the powers that be (you know, those people and companies that try to dictate your health based on their own greedy wants and desires) and the PET Scan will likely go as originally planned. Thank you!

Cammie: So grateful you have someone like Vida to advocate for you. My husband does my heavy lifting and usually finds someone with compassion along this journey. Never give up!

Luis: Be patience and trust in God. We are praying for you.