Death of Nataline Sarkisyan

File:Natalinesarkisyan.jpg

Natalinesarkisyan

Nataline Sarkisyan (July 10, 1990 – December 20, 2007) was a seventeen-year-old girl whose death sparked a significant controversy in the United States regarding the ethics and policies of health insurance companies. Her case became a focal point in the debate over health care reform in the United States.

Background

Nataline Sarkisyan was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 14. After three years of treatment, her condition deteriorated, and she required a liver transplant. Her family's health insurer, Cigna HealthCare, initially refused to cover the cost of the transplant, deeming it as experimental and not covered under their policy. This decision was met with public outcry and led to widespread media coverage.

Controversy

The controversy surrounding Nataline's case centered on the decision by Cigna HealthCare to deny coverage for her liver transplant. The denial was based on their assessment that the procedure was experimental and thus not a covered benefit. However, medical professionals, including Nataline's doctors, argued that the liver transplant was her only chance of survival.

Public Response

The decision by Cigna to deny coverage for Nataline's transplant led to a significant public backlash. Protests were organized outside Cigna's offices, and the case received national attention in the media. Advocacy groups, politicians, and the general public voiced their support for the Sarkisyan family and criticized the health insurance industry's practices.

Cigna's Reversal

Amidst growing public pressure, Cigna reversed its decision and agreed to cover the liver transplant. However, this decision came too late for Nataline Sarkisyan. She died just hours after Cigna announced it would pay for the transplant, on December 20, 2007.

Aftermath

The death of Nataline Sarkisyan had a lasting impact on the debate over health care reform in the United States. Her case was cited by advocates for reform as an example of the need for changes in the health insurance industry. It highlighted issues related to the denial of care and the power of insurance companies to make life-or-death decisions.

Legacy

Nataline Sarkisyan's case remains a symbol of the fight for health care reform and the movement towards ensuring that medical decisions are made by health professionals rather than insurance companies. Her family established the Nataline Sarkisyan Foundation in her memory, which advocates for changes in health care policies and supports families dealing with similar situations.