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Diagnostic Imaging Denial

Cigna Denied Your MRI Scan?

Cigna Healthcare (The Cigna Group) denies 18.5% of claims on average. But 52% of appeals succeed when patients fight back. Your mri scan denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.

18.5%
Denial Rate
52%
Appeal Success
30-60 days
Typical Timeline
$1,200–$5,000
Typical Claim

Why Cigna Denies MRI Scan

Prior authorization required but not obtained

Deemed not medically necessary at this stage

Lower-cost imaging (X-ray, CT) not tried first

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 MRI Scan Appeal

Clinical notes explaining why MRI is specifically needed over other imaging

Documentation of symptoms warranting urgent imaging

Peer-to-peer review between ordering physician and insurer medical director

Laws That Protect You

ACA §2719 — Right to appeal imaging denials

No Surprises Act — Protection against balance billing

State laws requiring timely authorization decisions

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 Fight Your MRI Scan Denial?

Upload your denial letter and get an AI-powered analysis in minutes. We'll identify the weaknesses in Cigna's reasoning and build your appeal strategy.

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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.