Dr. Gary’s Story

A 50 y/o established patient came in to my private practice for her annual exam. I found a lump in her breast on physical exam that was suspicious. I referred her to our general surgeon who performed a lumpectomy and the biopsy showed malignancy. 
I referred her to an oncologist.
Her insurance declined the referral, saying that as her family physician, I could serve as her oncologist.
I adamantly refused. 
“Well, if you’re going to throw a fit about it, OK, one visit.”
I was fuming. 
The oncologist recommended radiation therapy. 
Her insurance denied that as well!
After another screaming match on the telephone, they relented. 

At the end of the day, I realized that the insurance company always wins these arguments. Even if I get my way, as in this instance, the person I’m arguing with is getting paid, and I am not.