littlepeaks:

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This is OT -- been thinking a lot about insurance coverage. Would be nice if the Dupuytrens Foundation could produce a compilation of major medical insurance companies, and their caveats for paying for the various DD treatment options (especially RT and Xiaflex) -- and the state of DD condition required for approval (ie -- in an active state, degree of contracture, etc. I had Xiaflex treatment in February, and Medicare Part B and Tricare for Life paid all my medical expenses.

spanishbuddha --

Not sure if your response is serious or not, but if invited to do this, I'd dive in headfirst. I would need a hint on how to obtain the information from insurance companies. Would be interesting to see if there is any "industry standard" out there, and also to see whether RT for Dupuytren's is covered separately, or is a subcategory of a broader radiation therapy procedure.

Edited 08/01/14 02:20

My Medicare supplement insurance company has a $1300 USD copay for Xiaflex, I think the base cost w/o insurance is $3000 USD. I don't know how much of the two appointment procedure will be covered but will find out when they bill me. I hope there are no huge surprises!! The HealthWell foundation may cover much of what the insurance doesn't cover.

The legal process to appeal insurance turn downs and get information is fairly straightforward. The key to success is wording the appeal properly and hitting the hot buttons of the insurance industry so they fear your appeal will cost them money. I have been successful in every insurance company appeal because of experience, tenacity and and understanding of legal BS. You also have to threaten them with, and enlist the help of, government regulators. It ain't rocket science but it is a challenge.