I think there are a few messages in this story. Certainly the point is made how this insurance company operates. That operation may not be limited just to that agency.
What's the problem? The insurer approved "an emergency room visit." Lesson one; make sure every change along the way is approved? Lesson 1, The client did not get approval for services outside the emergency room?
Lessen 2, know that the cost or charge in American hospitals/health care is about 2000.00 an hour.(based on my trip 2 months ago) This from my own experience. If any any doubt about your insurance provider, get back to Canada if you can. Air fare is cheap by comparison and well worth a holiday interruption. (I have driven non stop to get out of the USA to avoid hospital lay-overs, and I had coverage)
I know hindsight is 20/20. It is hard, being so familiar with our system in Canada, to avoid health care when it is readily available in another country. One must underscore the unbelievable costs associated with putting your hand on the door to the emergency room and opening it.
It is an awful story to which I am sure happens all too often. Guess I'm just thinking out loud and reinforcing my own thoughts about when in poor health, run for the border.
Mary and Tom '86 Crosscountry Sportscoach 2000 Foretravel U320 4210