UnitedHealthcare Denies Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation Coverage to Teenager

A family is fighting against UnitedHealthcare's decision to deny coverage for their son's recommended rehabilitation after a traumatic brain injury. The boy was involved in an accident and doctors approved treatment at the Shepard Center in Atlanta, but UnitedHealthcare denied the rehab as not medically necessary.

The family appealed, citing physician recommendations and the need for traumatic brain injury rehabilitation. However, UnitedHealthcare stated that Mr. Alvarez has alternative full-time care options covered under his plan and is ready to work with the family.

The mother, Trina, told the Daily Mail on Sept. 4 that the alternative option provided by UnitedHealthcare is a skilled nursing facility without specialized therapy. The family is now fundraising, exploring legal options, and considering a switch to another provider.