Q: How can insurance companies keep lowering pain management for long term pain mngt patients until quality of life suffers
I had my first spine surgery at age 19 and many more,some botched over the years I turn 50 in a few days. Over the years I've had many pain mngt procedures, medications, and not a whole lot of pain relief. I finally got good pain mngt Dr. approx 16 yrs ago who gradually raised my meds until I felt 85% better. When we moved back to Montgomery a previous doctor took me back and continued my pain mngt. During this time I started leaving the house again and living for the first time in 20+ years. I took back up my love of deer hunting(at disabled sites). In 2018 I felt ok enough to pursue a lifelong dream of becoming a Realtor through the Social Sec Ticket to Work program. It was tough but I did it. Since my husband's retirement, the insurance Co keep lowering my meds, I find myself in more pain daily and my hard work & dreams are fading. How can they keep doing this?? I understand there bad docs & abuse but what about legit long term pain patients who've exhausted all other treatments? TY
A:
An Alabama attorney could address your issues best, as insurance is governed by state law. But your question remains open for two weeks. I'm sorry for your pain and frustration here. This sounds like something to take up with your doctor. While the pain management philosophies of your insurance carrier may encourage reduced use of pain medications, it is your doctor who must advocate your interests and needs. And that is more a medical issue than one that an attorney is qualified to address. But if your doctor agrees that your well-being would improve with medication, she or he could assert the medical necessity of their usage. If her or his recommendations are disputed or denied, then you and your doctor could consult an Alabama attorney if you exhaust the normal appeal routes. Good luck
Tim Akpinar
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