Question
I have fat pad atrophy and have gotten my second injection of Sculptra. It has been successful, altho expensive.  I will get the third injection in a month.  I am contemplating the graft jacket surgical procedure for a permanent fix.  Several questions: What can be done to get insurance companies to recognize Sculptra and graft jacket as acceptable treatments?  Are some clinical studies underway to make the procedures 'recommended'?  Can I submit my experience to someone to get it counted as a successful option?  Insurance companies will pay for foot amputation because of fat pad atrophy pain.  Why won't they pay for a more conservative treatment?  Many podiatrists don't know about Sculptra or graft jacket.  What can be done to make them aware so they can offer help to their crippled patients?  Is this too many questions?  Thanx.


Answer
This Chicago, South Loop & Elmhurst Podiatric Sports Medicine Doc of AnklenfootCenters.com says.......

Dear Lorena,

Contact your insurance company for a review of your condition of fat pad atrophy.
Have your doctor write a letter of medical necessity  for you to send to your insurance.Look at your insurance book carefully to see if it can be covered.Sometimes that works-especially if coming from the patient
The Sculptra injections for fat pad atrophy usually are not covered because they don't last.
The graft jacket may be covered as a surgical procedure-Ask the doctor's staff to do a precertification for you-If not,they should be helping you more than me for any forms you may need.
I am aware of both procedures and think most of my colleagues are aware. Unfortunately the insurance battle is better fought by the patient(person who pays the premium) rather that the doctor.
Please write to senator and congressman for insurance reform- You are right that the insurance companies are unfair!
Hope This Helps!
Good Luck!

We are specialists in sports medicine & orthopedics & surgery of the  foot & ankle


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Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
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