Hannah Hauer
, an associate in Powers’ Healthcare Practice Group, was featured in The ALS Association’s “We Are Undeniable” campaign for her pro bono work helping a patient with ALS successfully appeal a health insurance denial. The campaign highlights the real-life experiences of individuals facing insurance denials and provides resources to help patients and families challenge denied claims and navigate the appeals process.
According to an ALS Focus survey, one in three people living with ALS has encountered a denied insurance claim or prior authorization hurdle, yet fewer than one percent of denied claims are ever appealed.
The campaign features the story of Kayla Gonzalez, a mother of two living with SOD1-ALS, who was prescribed Qalsody by her physician. Despite her doctor’s recommendation, Kayla’s insurer denied coverage for the treatment, deeming it “not medically necessary.”
Serving as pro bono counsel for The ALS Association, Hannah appealed the denial on behalf of Kayla and her family and successfully overturned the insurer’s decision, helping Kayla gain access to the treatment prescribed by her physician.
Beyond her advocacy for Kayla, Hannah collaborated with The ALS Association earlier this year on the expansion of their Insurance Navigator Tool™. The expanded tool allows patients and families to connect with experienced legal professionals who can help navigate external health insurance appeals, understand their rights, gather necessary documentation, and build strong cases to secure access to critical care. To learn more about the tool and available legal assistance, visit www.als.org/support/als-insurance-navigator/legal-assistance.
Watch Kayla’s story as part of The ALS Association’s “We Are Undeniable” campaign.
About Powers Law
Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville PC (“Powers”) is a Washington, D.C.-based law firm with national practices in healthcare, education, government relations, Indian tribal governments, and nonprofit law. Powers attorneys and professionals are nationally known for their extensive expertise in their practice areas and their commitment to client service. For more information, visit www.PowersLaw.com.