www.youtube.com – WRAL – 2025-03-11 03:39:30

SUMMARY: A local mom was shocked when her health insurance denied coverage for a $126,000 ankle procedure despite prior approvals. After unsuccessful appeals by Melissa Co, she sought help from Five On Your Side. The investigation found Blue Cross Blue Shield initially claimed the implanted device was “investigational.” However, Duke Hospital clarified that the misunderstanding stemmed from the specific 3D model used for her treatment. Ultimately, Blue Cross admitted their mistake, apologized, and approved the coverage. The incident highlights the importance of appealing insurance denials and knowing one’s rights, as only 1% of denied claims are appealed.

A local mom was stunned when her health insurance denied coverage for a $126,000 procedure. WRAL 5 On Your Side Producer Pritchard Strong explains how his team got the massive medical bill wiped away.

Source

www.youtube.com – WRAL – 2025-03-10 20:58:50

SUMMARY: A Wake County woman, Melissa Coke, had her $126,000 health insurance denial overturned thanks to Five On Your Side. After undergoing a second ankle replacement surgery, she received a denial from Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC, citing a 3D printed prosthetic implant as the reason. After appealing and receiving another denial, she contacted Five On Your Side, which reviewed her case. The insurance company subsequently reversed its decision and apologized to Coke, stating she would not be responsible for any out-of-pocket costs. This case highlights the rising rates of insurance denials and the importance of advocacy in such situations.

Melissa Koch had a $126,000 medical bill wiped away after she reached out to WRAL 5 On Your Side for help.

Source

ncnewsline.com – Lynn Bonner – 2025-03-10 11:00:00

SUMMARY: At a March 2025 meeting, state employees criticized proposals to raise health insurance costs, arguing it would hinder recruitment and tarnish their benefits. The State Health Plan faces a $1.4 billion deficit over two years, prompting State Treasurer Brad Briner to seek $500 million in funding and a 5% increase in state contributions annually. The plan may implement salary-based premium hikes and increase out-of-pocket costs. Employees stressed that these changes could make healthcare unaffordable and jeopardize employee retention. The Board of Trustees is exploring cost-saving measures from hospitals while planning for premium decisions in August.

Read the full article

The post Plans to increase state employee health insurance costs draw criticism appeared first on ncnewsline.com