Bankmed refused to cover anaesthesia for my 3-year-old’s dental procedure

I am extremely disappointed with how my medical aid has handled my 3-year-old son's dental treatment.

My son has quite a few damaged teeth that need drilling and fillings. Because of his age and the amount of work that needs to be done, our dentist referred us to a hospital where the procedure could be done under anaesthesia. The dentist explained that trying to do all of this on a 3-year-old while he is awake would be extremely difficult and traumatic for him.

Before going ahead, I called my medical aid, gave them the procedure code and was told that no authorisation was required and that we could proceed.

We arrived at the hospital today, only to be told that they would cover the dental procedure but not the anaesthesiologist, because they believe the procedure can be done at a normal dentist.

This makes absolutely no sense. If it could be done at a normal dentist, why was my 3-year-old referred to a hospital in the first place? Now they are asking for motivation from the doctor why this has to be done under anesthetic, you already have the information of the procedure that is going to be performed, you have my son's details, he is three, what motivation do you need honestly?

I am extremely frustrated that I did everything I was supposed to do, contacted the medical aid beforehand and re**** on the information I was given, only to be told something completely different on the day of the procedure.

We pay a lot every month for medical aid, and I honestly expected better communication and consideration when it comes to the treatment of a 3-year-old child.

I really hope this matter is properly reviewed and resolved.