Insurance Authorization

[OnlySunshine]

I called a balance and hearing disorder clinic last week that my aunt with Meniere's was referred to and likes to try to get a second opinion from an ENT doctor.  After doing tons of reading and research about vestibular migraines, I think I may also have Meniere's disease like I originally believed because 50% of patients with vestibular migraines have Meniere's as a co-morbid disorder.  The symptoms are almost 100% identical so it's very difficult to diagnose unless you have a specialist.  This ENT specializes in neurotology - specifically, neurological disorders of the ear.  

I've been seeing a neurologist but I am not happy with his treatment - he seems to want to cover up the symptoms with benzodiazepines (such as Klonopin) or calcium channel blockers (the one he gave me worsened my symptoms) rather than looking into vestibular rehabilitation.  I don't want to be on heavy medication the rest of my life.  If it is Meniere's disease, neither one of those medications will help in the long run - doctors usually give diuretics to reduce the amount of fluid build-up in the inner ear and other therapies that specifically target the vestibular dysfunction that causes vertigo and hearing loss.  There are no cures for the disorder, but these usually work better than trying to cover up symptoms.

Anyway, when I called, the new patient registrar informed me that, with my HMO, I would have to get my primary care doctor to submit a referral and authorization form in order for the testing to be approved.  This was done the same day that I called by my PCP's medical assistant but my insurance seems to be very slow in getting the information to the specialist.  I cannot even make an appointment until they have prior approval - one of the many reasons I hate HMOs, but they are all my workplace offers.

Please say some prayers that I get the go-ahead from the insurance company today so I can make an appointment and work on finding out why my balance is so messed up (my spatial orientation is REALLY bad; I cannot even close my eyes without holding on to something for fear I may fall forward).