Paul Cordek is on a journey to find out what’s been causing some unusual symptoms.
"I haven’t found out exactly what this is, but I’m narrowing it down," he said.
For the past three years, Cordek says he’s been experiencing muscle twitching and the "gradual loss of muscle mass and then the inability to work out or do anything athletic" like he used to. He has seen several doctors and has been able to rule out some serious diseases, like ALS. Then one of his doctors recommended a genetic test for Amyloidosis – a disease that could lead to life-threatening organ failure.
"He provided me the test code and the test name and the specific facility that should perform the test," Cordek said.
Quest Diagnostics is the in-network lab for his insurance, so Cordek went to their website to see if they offered the test.
"I was elated that the test was there because … I had met my max out-of-pocket deductible and I thought 'great, this is one test that I won’t have to pay for,'" he said.
But he was later told he would have to pay $800 for the test, a reduced rate after he applied for financial assistance. Cordek says he was told the test was being done at a lab called Athena, which is owned by Quest, but Athena operates as its own lab and doesn’t accept Cordek’s insurance.
Local
"When I got the bill, that’s when I called Athena, and reiterated my position that I don't think I really should have to pay for that," he said.
Then he called NBC 6 Responds.
"From the very beginning, it was an easy process to follow," he said.
Quest agreed to review Cordek’s situation after we got involved. Kim Gorode, a spokesperson for Quest, sent us the following statement:
"Quest Diagnostics and Athena Diagnostics confirm that Mr. Cordek did go to a Quest Lab to receive a TTR DNA Sequencing test. Quest Diagnostics does offer this test. However, his physician ordered the test from Athena Diagnostics on an Athena Diagnostics requisition form and not a Quest Diagnostics requisition form, which is why he was referred to Athena Diagnostics to take the test. Quest Diagnostics and Athena Diagnostics are two separate companies and therefore have independent billing practices and different insurance acceptance criteria. Unfortunately, Athena Diagnostics does not accept Mr. Cordek’s insurance. However, as a one-time courtesy, Athena Diagnostics is refunding Mr. Cordek’s payment of $800. We encourage all patients confirm with their health insurance that their healthcare providers are 'in network' prior to using their services."
"All-in-all, they did what’s right so I’m thankful," Cordek said.
Now, he can focus on making sure he’s OK, so he can keep enjoying his wife and little boy for many years to come.
"It's extremely important for me to be around," he added.
Trying to figure out what’s covered by your insurance and what’s not can be tricky.
It’s always a good idea to ask questions and double-check with your insurance provider to verify coverage you might be unsure about.
