Mandate Correct Definitions for Endometriosis Insurance Coverage
The Issue
It should not be legal for insurance companies to deny coverage based on outdated and incorrect definitions. And yet, major insurance providers are doing just that to people living with endometriosis.
As someone with Stage 4 Endometriosis, I’ve lived through the endless frustration and despair that comes from fighting for coverage. My most recent surgery involved removing endometriosis from all over my pelvis and abdomen, along with a bowel resection, ureter reconstruction, and hysterectomy. Yet, when my doctor recommended a follow-up MRI to check for both anatomical irregularities and potential regrowth of the endometriosis, Wellmark denied coverage for the scan using an incorrect definition of endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a systemic inflammatory condition, as recognized by the National Institutes of Health, that can affect any organ throughout the body—not just a reproductive disorder. Wellmark’s refusal, based on an outdated and inaccurate understanding, highlights how systemic this issue is for endometriosis patients. Organ loss on our end, zero accountability on theirs. They even stipulated coverage only if there was potential spread to specific areas, an unjust criterion that misrepresents the true nature of this condition.
How is it fair that those of us paying for insurance must fight tooth and nail to receive the care we desperately need? Inaccurate definitions of medical definitions perpetuate a cycle of denial that leaves patients suffering and without necessary medical care. Anecdotally, we know this is happening to millions of people living with endometriosis. This isn’t just about me—it’s about ensuring all endometriosis patients receive fair, proper treatment without having to jump through endless hoops.
I’m filing an appeal, but I shouldn’t have to. It’s time for a change. We need mandatory, standardized definitions for insurance coverage to end the unfair treatment of endometriosis patients. I urge you to sign this petition to demand that insurance companies, like Wellmark, adopt the correct, NIH-approved definitions. Help us ensure that everyone living with endometriosis receives the care they deserve. Please sign and make a difference now.
1,045
The Issue
It should not be legal for insurance companies to deny coverage based on outdated and incorrect definitions. And yet, major insurance providers are doing just that to people living with endometriosis.
As someone with Stage 4 Endometriosis, I’ve lived through the endless frustration and despair that comes from fighting for coverage. My most recent surgery involved removing endometriosis from all over my pelvis and abdomen, along with a bowel resection, ureter reconstruction, and hysterectomy. Yet, when my doctor recommended a follow-up MRI to check for both anatomical irregularities and potential regrowth of the endometriosis, Wellmark denied coverage for the scan using an incorrect definition of endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a systemic inflammatory condition, as recognized by the National Institutes of Health, that can affect any organ throughout the body—not just a reproductive disorder. Wellmark’s refusal, based on an outdated and inaccurate understanding, highlights how systemic this issue is for endometriosis patients. Organ loss on our end, zero accountability on theirs. They even stipulated coverage only if there was potential spread to specific areas, an unjust criterion that misrepresents the true nature of this condition.
How is it fair that those of us paying for insurance must fight tooth and nail to receive the care we desperately need? Inaccurate definitions of medical definitions perpetuate a cycle of denial that leaves patients suffering and without necessary medical care. Anecdotally, we know this is happening to millions of people living with endometriosis. This isn’t just about me—it’s about ensuring all endometriosis patients receive fair, proper treatment without having to jump through endless hoops.
I’m filing an appeal, but I shouldn’t have to. It’s time for a change. We need mandatory, standardized definitions for insurance coverage to end the unfair treatment of endometriosis patients. I urge you to sign this petition to demand that insurance companies, like Wellmark, adopt the correct, NIH-approved definitions. Help us ensure that everyone living with endometriosis receives the care they deserve. Please sign and make a difference now.
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Petition created on July 2, 2026