OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT/Gray News) – A Nebraska man says he never thought a battle with insurance would be the toughest part of his medical journey.
Doctors say Nathan Kirkland is in need of a liver transplant, and it is something that is finally scheduled for this Friday in Pittsburgh.
According to doctors, a new liver is the best chance for the 36-year-old’s survival.
But Kirkland said he found himself not only battling his health situation but he was also in a battle with his health insurance.
The Kirkland family said Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield denied coverage for his liver transplant, sending a letter saying it’s not medically necessary.
The family said they found out that the liver transplant surgery alone could cost $800,000.
Kirkland thought insurance was going to keep him from achieving something he’d been working a year to be able to have and improve his quality of life.
His doctors then sent an appeal letter, citing a “100 percent survival in 10 patients treated with living-donor liver transplantation.” Saying they “feel strongly that a liver transplant offers Mr. Kirkland the best chance for long-term survival.”
And he doesn’t have to look far for a match: Both of his brothers fit the bill.
“I’m just not ready to give up yet,” Kirkland said. “I’m not ready to not be there for my kids or my wife.”
Luckily, the Kirklands didn’t have to wait any longer and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield approved the coverage of the liver transplant.
Anthem released the following statement, saying in part:
“After Mr. Kirkland contacted us on Feb. 9, we initiated an appeal process, which included further discussions between our oncology medical director and his transplant surgeon. It was during this review that new details were provided, including an updated diagnosis and data on the transplant center’s success rates for patients with similar diagnoses.
With this new information, Anthem approved coverage for Mr. Kirkland’s liver transplant and has informed him of the decision.”
Kirkland said he is very grateful for everyone’s help.
“So exciting,” he said. “This turnaround is incredible. I can’t believe it.”
Now, this Valentine’s Day he’ll have more than just love to celebrate.
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Clinton Mora is a reporter for Trending Insurance News. He has previously worked for the Forbes. As a contributor to Trending Insurance News, Clinton covers emerging a wide range of property and casualty insurance related stories.