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← Return to Severe spinal stenosis
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I have had three neurosurgeons view my cervical mri. All three recommended surgery. My medicare plan disagreed with the three neurosurgeons. As a result , I am on pain management for my cervical. Currently, I take morphine 30mg er two times daily and hydrocodone 10/325 up to five times a day. The meds do not eliminate the pain, but make it tolerable. I just had a reverse total shoulder replacement and that took my mind off the back pain. I am 67 too. I'm just looking for some relief. I've tried injections nerve blocks and two different spine stimulator. Im at a loss on what to do next.
Replies to "I have had three neurosurgeons view my cervical mri. All three recommended surgery. My medicare plan..."
This is not uncommon unfortunately. I’m guessing you’re on an advantage plan or a PPO unfortunately. Contact the physicians and ask them to write a letter and you too need to write a letter to your insurance explaining how bad your situation is. Your insurance is weighing the cost of your medication monthly vs. the much higher cost of surgery and rehab. Don’t take it lying down. Your insurance may have an ombudsman you can speak with also to state your case. And also call your insurance company too and complain.
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@koneil, you may have a very good medicare advantage plan. Then again, you might want to effect a change during the next three months. Original Medicare is so much better at paying for surgery . You probably could challenge your plan.
Opioids are sometimes necessary but they don't make a good long term plan and you are only 67.
If you do switch or challenge be sure and consider artificial disc replacement https://spinehealth.org/cervical-disc-replacement-procedure/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1NK4BhAwEiwAVUHPUNpk8svWKsfnpntWRX1r5XfzRtUfqskTR_Mzlzg6cQ_QyZfRAKlk1BoCOTUQAvD_BwE