Skip to main content
Oncology Denial

Cigna Denied Your Cancer Treatment?

According to federal data, Cigna Healthcare (The Cigna Group) denies approximately 18.5% of claims. When patients appeal, about 52% are overturned. Your cancer treatment denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.Sources: KFF ACA Marketplace Transparency Data, HHS OIG Reports, state insurance department filings. Rates are aggregate averages — individual results vary by plan type, denial reason, and documentation.

18.5%
Denial Rate
52%
Appeal Success
30-60 days
Typical Timeline
$20,000–$200,000+
Typical Claim

Based on published government and industry research. Individual results vary based on denial type, insurer, and documentation.

Why Cigna Denies Cancer Treatment

Treatment classified as experimental or investigational

Not following insurer-preferred treatment protocol

Out-of-network oncologist required for specialized care

Cigna's Common Denial Tactics

Mass auto-denials (300,000 claims in 2 months at 1.2 seconds each)

Requiring step therapy for medications your doctor already tried

Denying claims as "experimental" despite FDA approval

How to Win Your Cancer Treatment Appeal

NCCN guidelines supporting the treatment protocol

Peer-reviewed studies and clinical trial results

Oncologist letter with detailed treatment rationale

FDA approval documentation for the specific indication

Consider attorney involvement for high-value cancer treatment denials

Laws That Protect You

ACA — Cancer screening and treatment as Essential Health Benefits

State cancer treatment mandate laws

Clinical trial coverage requirements (ACA §2709)

Tips for Appealing to Cigna

Reference the ProPublica investigation into automated denials

Gather evidence of prior failed treatments to counter step therapy requirements

Obtain peer-reviewed studies supporting FDA-approved treatments

Ready to Review Your Cancer Treatment Denial?

Upload your denial letter and get a clear analysis in minutes. We'll identify potential weaknesses in Cigna's reasoning and outline your appeal options.

Analyze My Denial Free

Analysis is always free. No credit card required.

This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Statistics cited are from publicly available sources including KFF, HHS OIG, and state insurance department data. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before taking action on your specific situation.

Cigna Denied Your Cancer Treatment? Here's How to Appeal | Lysco