My mother has been told that she has cancer (23 July). Since her preliminary diagnosis she has had 5 CAT Scans, an MRI, a bone scan, one biopsy, etc...  None of these tests have provided us a lead on where and what type of cancer she has.  We finally got to the oncologist who ordered a PET scan, as he felt that was the best way to finally determine where and what type of cancer she has.  Last week her Insurance company, UNITED HEALTHCARE, based on a telcon with her oncologist determined that she didn't need a PET scan and refused to authorize this diagnostic test.    I am using this forum in hopes of informing anyone who may be looking to UNITED HEALTHCARE as their insurer (along with their medicare) that they may want to do further research into the policies of this insurance company.  It is sad and frankly frustrating that the insurer is deciding what is medically best for the patient NOT their doctors and other health care providers.  I also am hopeful that AARP will investigate further before continuing to endorse this insurance company.  Many seniors look to AARP to provide them with an unbiased evaluation of senior friendly service providers, including health insurance.  In my opinion, I find UNITED HEALTHCARE not only unfriendly to seniors but find their ability to gauge what is medically best/necessary for a patient without evaluating all medical records and deferring to specialists in the necessary medical field unethical (I would imagine their doctors are required to take the Hippocratic oath as any other doctor).  I intend to continue to fight to get my mother the best treatment and only hope this post will save others this frustration and feeling of helplessness.  Sincerely, a very concerned and angry daughter
Posted by erika7877