Are Iowa’s Autistic Kids Being Denied Autism Testing?

Steve Lombardi

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 335

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A Michigan class action lawsuit has settled for $1 million dollars to reimburse 100 families for the expense of testing their infant children for autism. BCBS has a way of using the experimental contract exclusion clause for denying claims. After settling Michigan’s BCBS said it will offer extended autism coverage to children 1 to 5 years of age.

This isn’t a new tactic by the Blues. Just this past week I received a call from a person who the Blues pulled the same experimental exclusionary clause designation involving a spine surgery implant. This was after giving the doctor’s office approval to cover the surgery.

If you’ve been denied coverage by your health insurer for autism testing see a lawyer for assistance. There are lawyers on the InjuryBoard who would be interested in helping you and if enough were assembled a class action may be warranted.

Many states are now requiring coverage and have legislated compliance by the insurance industry. With Iowa’s Blue Cross Blue Shield chief having doubled his pay to $2.5 million the Iowa Blues isn’t hurting for premium dollars. Autism affects about 1 of every 150 births.

• Autism is diagnosed in about one of every 150 children. The disorder is characterized by impaired communication and socialization. Des Moines Register

Iowa’s Head CEO of BCBS Comes Down with the Swine Flu, Treatment is Costing Iowa $2.5m

The CEO of Iowa’s Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has been increasing his pay at the rate of having it doubled in the past five years and now is set at $2.5 million for 2008.

My guess it the Blues can afford testing for a couple of autistic infants.

Contact a lawyer; we are here to assist you against companies like the Blues applying tort reforms that cost shift to you and me. I agree with Nancy Reagan, just say no.