Written surgery approval withdrawn, causing severe emotional distress and financial strain.

Written approval withdrawn—severe emotional and financial impact

Discovery approved my breast reduction in writing and provided co-payment details. Relying on that approval, I booked leave from work, secured funds through a loan, forwarded the authorisation to my surgeon and had theatre time provisionally booked. The hospital also received an *** and prompted me to complete pre-admission.

Discovery then changed their mind and refused cover. I was told the earlier approval was an automated communication, but it contained specific details that gave me every reason to believe I could proceed.

This procedure is potentially life-changing for me. It represents relief from ongoing physical pain and discomfort, improved mobility and the opportunity to exercise more comfortably. I had finally felt hopeful about improving my quality of life.

Having that hope raised and then abruptly taken away has caused me severe emotional distress, anxiety and uncer*****y. Preparing psychologically for surgery, arranging finances and planning support for my family takes considerable effort. Being left unsure whether I can proceed, with surgery less than a month away, has been deeply upsetting.

My complaint is not simply about receiving a rejection. It concerns the written approval, the decisions I made relying on it and the consequences of its withdrawal. A detailed response has been promised by 19 October. I ask Discovery to urgently reconsider funding and meaningfully address the emotional and financial impact of what has happened.