How do insurance denial appeals work?

Upload your denial letter and Lysco analyzes it, identifies the denial reason, cites applicable laws (ACA, ERISA, state regulations), and generates a customized appeal letter. You review and submit it yourself.

Can Lysco predict my appeal result?

Appeal outcomes vary by plan, facts, and documentation. Public data shows consumers rarely appeal denied claims and many denials involve administrative or plan-design issues. Lysco helps users understand the denial, prepare the paperwork, and decide what to do next; it does not predict results.

Is Lysco a law firm or medical practice?

No. Lysco is an informational tool that helps you understand your rights and options. It is not a law firm, medical practice, or insurance company. For specific legal or medical situations, consult a licensed professional.

How much does Lysco cost?

EOB translation is always free and you get one free document analysis and one free appeal letter. Per case: $29 for a denial appeal, medical bill review, or surprise bill dispute. Or upgrade to Pro ($29/mo) or Annual ($199/year) for unlimited everything across all five pillars including the prior authorization helper. Cancel anytime.

Is my health data secure on Lysco?

Yes. Lysco uses AES-256 encryption at rest, TLS for data in transit, and row-level security so only you can access your data. We never sell your data and follow HIPAA-aligned security practices.

Referral Denial

Cigna Denied Your Specialist Referral?

According to federal data, Cigna Healthcare (The Cigna Group) denies approximately 18.5% of claims. When patients appeal, about 52% are overturned. Your specialist referral 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.

Analyze Your Denial Free Read the Appeal Guide

18.5%

Denial Rate

52%

Appeal Success

30-60 days

Typical Timeline

$500–$5,000

Typical Claim

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

Why Cigna Denies Specialist Referral

Primary care can manage the condition

Out-of-network specialist not covered

Referral authorization expired or not obtained

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 Specialist Referral Appeal

PCP letter explaining why specialist care is needed

Documentation of failed primary care treatment

Evidence no in-network specialist is available for the condition

Laws That Protect You

ACA network adequacy requirements

State any-willing-provider laws

No Surprises Act for emergency specialist care

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 Specialist Referral 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.