This is one of many updates that I will put out regarding the process of trying to get the proper treatment for my endo.
After multiple calls to the Kaiser Referral Department (KRD), I discovered that my referral had slipped through the cracks. Over 30 days later and my referral was just sitting on the desk of the head of the GYN dept in Kaiser Panorama or North Hollywood, not sure which. I am sure it would still be sitting there if I hadn't called REPEATEDLY. I was given a referral by my Kaiser GYN (KG), the day after Thanksgiving. The referral turn around should be in the neighborhood of 5 business days.
My current calls to Kaiser Referral Department (KRD) today gave me the information that my Referral was denied.
This was extremely emotional, even though I expected to receive a denial from the first try at a referral.
Some good things came from this call. I spoke to an employee in the KRD that assured me that actions were being taken amidst the local departments regarding my referral being ignored for so long. This employee also told me that according to what she could see she was confused that the denial was put forth stating that services could be handled within Kaiser, but that there were no services recommended to/for me. She said she would be contacting my KG to find out the recommended treatment. She asked me to call Member Services and appeal the denial of my referral. This KRD employee also assured me that she was going to help me every step of the way and that she thought that my appeal would be approved. This was very encouraging to hear.
I called the Member Services Department (MSD) and spoke to an employee who, miraculously, had suffered under the disease of endometriosis. This employee was very sensitive to my case and although she had little experience how to help me herself, after some time, she was able to communicate with a supervisor and formulated a plan. This MSD employee has filed an Expedited Complaint and Appeal. I was told that I will be contacted within 3 business days regarding this complaint. When I called the KRD back, she agreed this was the correct next step for me, and now I wait for the 3 business days.
We are encouraged by this news and ask that all our praying friends and family would press in for God's will in this situation.
Personally, it was an emotional afternoon having to plead my case to people on the phone and try to explain how halted my life really is. And I am also encouraged by the news that some employees think my referral is warranted a positive response. At the same time, I am fighting to get a surgery that I am terrified to get. So, needless to say, I am ... well....as I said... emotional.
Thanks for your prayers! Stay tuned to my blog for the latest updates or to learn more about my disease.
All is Well~
~Laura
