Discovery Health failing patient ahead of urgent gynaecological surgery

I am extremely disappointed in Discovery Health's handling of my authorisation for a Mirena IUD insertion, scheduled in theatre on 27 August.

Discovery already authorised an in-rooms insertion, which failed and was extremely painful — this is on record with them. My gynaecologist has since confirmed that theatre insertion under anaesthesia is the only appropriate option given my anatomy. Despite this, Discovery is now demanding a further letter of motivation before authorising the procedure, days before my scheduled surgery.

This device is clinically necessary — I have a DVT history and am on blood thinners, and PCOS causing debilitating cycles. Every day of delay means more unnecessary pain. Discovery already has the clinical information they need on file.

I am asking Discovery Health to authorise this immediately, without further delay, and to explain why a documented failed attempt wasn't sufficient motivation on its own.