Doug Sharon: Heart patient receives life saving surgery
Reasoning with, moreover receiving benefits from a managed care company as many Americans know can be frustrating, time consuming and costly. A Theodore J. Leopold who specializes in managed care related issues has successfully represented a number of individuals and families that have been abused and adversely impacted by managed health care companies.
In May, Mr. Leopold was contacted by a gentleman who had a rare heart disease requiring a specialized surgery. The gentleman lives in South Florida, however, only one surgeon does the procedure and he practices in the western United States. The gentleman’s insurance carrier/managed care company refused to pay for the doctor or surgery because it was “out of network.” Faced with the refusal from the managed care company and insufficient resources to pay for the procedure himself, the clock was ticking on his life.
“I was concerned and angry that this company was refusing treatment to this gentleman,” said Leopold. Adding, “it is the typical catch 22, which is so often used by managed care companies to deny treatment and life saving care. There simply was no doctor in their network comfortable or capable of performing this surgery.” Realizing that he had litigated against this particular company before, Leopold told the man, “I want to help, don’t worry about paying me, let’s just get you the treatment you need and get you back on your feet.” After numerous calls, letters and long hours of negotiating, the managed care company agreed to pay for the entire procedure, allow the injured to travel out west and be treated by the leading surgeon in the country. Additionally, Leopold was able to get the company to pay the man an undisclosed settlement for his time, aggravation, worry and distress over their initial refusal of care.
“I took no fee for the matter, however, the personal and professional satisfaction in playing a role that helped this gentleman regain his life is impossible to completely articulate,” said Leopold. “I am a strong supporter of the ‘Dignity in Law’ campaign that the Bar has established. But most importantly, I feel a personal and professional responsibility to help individuals and families where so much is at stake.”
Click here to find out more about Attorney Theodore J. Leopold.
