Insurance Denies Man’s Lung Transplant Days Before Surgery

  • Deron Wells faces insurance denial for a life-saving double lung transplant despite medical approval. Unfortunately, insurance denies coverage, putting his life at risk.
  • His family and friends are urging the insurer to reconsider and allow the transfer to Chicago. They’re determined to fight back after the insurance denies the needed procedure.
  • Wells remains hopeful as he waits for the appeal decision to continue his fight against lung cancer, even as insurance denies him the help he needs.

Deron Wells, a 59-year-old husband and father of three, fights stage 4 lung cancer. He needs a double lung transplant to survive. Doctors approved him for a special clinical trial in Chicago. This treatment could save his life. His insurance company, Cigna, first said they would cover the transplant and transfer. Wells and his family began preparing to leave UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center. But just before they left, Cigna suddenly denied coverage for both the transplant and the transfer. This denial shocked Wells and his loved ones. Now, Wells must fight not only cancer but also his insurance company, as insurance denies him help.

Family and Friends Plead for Life-Saving Treatment Approval

Wells’ wife, Janet Savarimuthu, stressed how serious the situation is. She said they have no other option but to get Wells to Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. She asked Cigna to remember that Wells is a person, not just a policy number. Janet fears that the insurance company does not understand how much is at stake. Wells’ friends started a campaign to raise awareness and support. Scott Kern, a close friend, said Wells deserves this chance and that they will keep fighting hard for him. Everyone hopes Cigna will reverse its decision soon and approve the transplant.

Insurance Company Cites Clinical Standards for Denial

Cigna stated their decision follows national clinical standards. They said these guidelines help ensure the best results for patients. Lung transplants usually do not treat lung cancer. This fact may explain why Cigna denied Wells’ coverage. The company tries to base decisions on medical guidelines and outcomes. Still, many people disagree that Wells should be denied. His case is unusual, but experts approved him for this clinical trial. His appeal challenges Cigna’s decision. Wells and his family hope the company will reconsider quickly.

Wells Remains Hopeful and Ready to Appeal the Decision

He continues to fight with courage. He knows the transplant could save his life. Despite the insurance denial, he holds on to hope. “I am not done yet,” he said. Wells submitted an appeal to Cigna. He expects a reply by Thursday. The outcome will shape his future. His wife and friends support him every step of the way. They believe the insurance company must act fast. Wells’ story shows the challenges people face when insurance blocks life-saving care. It also highlights how patients and families must sometimes fight hard to get treatment.

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