Is CT 64 slice heart scan experimental?

Need some answers on this.  I had a heart ct (yes, like Oprah).  The hospital checked with the insurance company and they said they would pay for it.  I told them I didn't want it done if the insurance was not going to pay for it.  Today, I get a letter from them saying that it is an experimental procedure and that if I have it done they will not pay for it.  Well, it was done over a month ago.  So, I need to know if there is anyone out there that has had this happen to them, or any doctors out there that can tell me if this is still considered experimental because there is a lot of places out there that are doing it now.  Please help, I can't afford to pay for it.

[Jack54]

This 64 slice Coronary Artery CT Scan is in no way an experimental test. I had one in August of 2005 and bcbs paid for it. They had just finished negotiations with the hospital though.

Check with your hospital and get the "official" name of the test that was included in the claim sent to your insurance company.

Also go over your benefit booklet to see what you can find out, if anything. Next call the hospital and explain your problem to them. See if they can somehow change the coding on the claim to help you.

There are certain criteria that has evolved in order for the test to be ordered by the doctor. If you did not meet this criteria, then they may be calling your particular test "experimental". I do not see why you would be given the test if you did not meet the criteria, unless Okra told you how to just walk in and ask to be given the test cause she said all folks need one.

Did Okra tell you that you received a very substantial dose of ionizing radiation equal to 300 to 500 chest x-rays? If you are really older tham 60 or so, you don't have to worry about getting cancer from this test for around 20-30 years.

Good luck on this payment deal.

Jack

[oldmama]

Hey,m thanks for the come back.  I have had uncles die of heart attacks at 36,50,55, and my brother (18 mths older) has had stroke, heart attack, and they say he won't live another 3 mths.  Father died at 59.  I have had chest pain, so ya, my doctor wanted me in for one.  I told them, and the hospital, when the appointment was set up that I most differently did not want it if it was not going to be paid for.  I was assured that it was paid for.  The insurance co told the doctors office and the hospital that it was covered.  A month after the appointment, they send out a letter stating that if I have it done I will have to pay for it myself.  Nothing like after the fact.  I have not seen the bill yet but I bet it is at least $5 grant.  I could of driven to the next state over and had it done for $500.  The chest ct came out good, which is a very big stress off my shoulders since the lungs didn't.  By the way, we have the same insurance company.