Health insurance company sued by customer who claims she has paid $60K in medical bills after accident

GRETNA – A health insurance company is being sued by one of its customers for allegedly not covering treatment for injuries she suffered in an accident with a semi-truck.

Anna Nguyen filed suit against Coventry Healthcare of Louisiana Inc. in the 24th Judicial District Court on June 2.

Nguyen claims she has medical insurance through Coventry Healthcare of Louisiana Inc. that began on April 1, 2010. The plaintiff alleges the defendant’s policy covered her with a deductible of up to $2,500 per person and $5,000 per family and that her out-of-pocket limit is $3,000 per person, $6,000 per family, which doubles out of the healthcare network. Nguyen asserts she was involved in an auto accident with an 18-wheeler and suffered serious injuries including a herniated disc in her neck, a tear in her left shoulder and a left knee injury, which have resulted in numerous diagnostic exams and injuries.

The plaintiff claims since the accident she has been denied coverage by Coventry Healthcare of Louisiana Inc. and has advanced thousands of dollars worth of care to them. Nguyen alleges she most recently borrowed $57,000 to undergo surgery on her spine. The plaintiff asserts she has so far incurred $60,000 in medical expenses.

The defendant is accused of breach of contract and bad faith.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, emotional distress, mental anguish, penalties for violating star law, legal interest and attorney’s fees.

Nguyen is represented by attorney George W. Healy of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division H Judge Glenn B. Ansardi.

Case no. 738-993.