How does secondary insurance work when a primary insurer won’t cover a claim?

Hi all,

I'm trying to figure out whether my secondary insurance should be able to cover a series of health claims. I have insurance through my work, which doesn't cover out of network care; and secondary insurance with Cigna through my partner (her employer's plan).

I've been seeing an out of network therapist, and was under the impression that although my primary insurer wouldn't cover the care, Cigna would (out of network is covered under that plan). After months of document run-around, Cigna is saying they won't cover the claim unless the primary insurance will also cover it, and that this is how primary + secondary insurance work.

Is this correct? Am I mistaken in my understanding of how secondary insurance should work in this situation?

I've already paid for the care out of pocket.

It's surprisingly hard to find information about secondary insurance and how it works in this scenario. Any other information you have explaining how this works would be much appreciated!

submitted by /u/Fast_Transition8417
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