Discovery Health *******

I went in recently for an emergency back op to deal with a piece of broken off disc that was trapping a nerve. Agony, obviously. Discovery excelled themselves this time in dodging payments. Firstly, they rejected all claims claiming that it was the surgery was not pre-approved. (It was). Then their "approved portion" of accounts across the board was pathetic. I knew and expected that I would have to pay in additional monies as their "approved rates" are never what the specialists charge. However, I was absolutely horrified that of a R33500 surgeons bill their "contribution" would be R8000.00. They would not pay more than 25% of the bill. They call THAT their "approved rate". Bully tactics by a disgusting corporate giant to try and force me to buy more of their slimy insurance to "cover their humungous 'gap'. I refuse to be bul****. We pay them over R5000 a month in premiums and this is what they offer. I am disgusted. I have given them no less then 5 opportunities to discuss and negotiate the matter, and I am met with pathetic "sorry you feel that was a negative response" emails from robotic nobodies who refuse, despite my various requests, to escalate my complaint and engage in intelligent negotiation. Having googled the matter, I am not alone. Health24, Business Live and kznnews all have articles highlighting the rip-off that is Discovery Health. I have also heard from a friend who recently underwent knee surgery that a lawyer known to them was discussing taking on what they view as "*******" rejection or poor payment from this corporate - I cannot, however, verify at this point whether that is valid - will need legal advice / verification. Oh, Discovery also told me, when I queried why they didn't highlight on their approval that they would only pay 25%, that they mentioned that I could research contracted in suppliers. Sure - while I was lying in my hospital bed drugged on heavy pain ****er drips to dull the screaming pain prior to surgery, I was going to go 'oh, send me home I'd rather be researching some more doctors somewhere than deal with the two options available to me at my local Medi-Clinic, one of whom was on holiday". Totally. They NEVER disclosed their portion up front, merely have an "escape clause" should I be stupid enough to want to question them. I HATE being **********, and I have just been royally ......