Here we are within a week or so of a new year. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone the best of holidays and a Merry Christmas!
Although it is very hard at times to keep focused on the positive when it comes to disability claims, the truth is that approximately 50%-70% of disability claims ARE paid, and for many, life goes on financially secure in a positive way.
DCS, Inc. receives emails and calls from those who have been receiving benefits sometimes for 15-20 years with no problems whatsoever. (In fact, I have clients who have been with me that long!) Some callers tell me they won appeals all on their own, which is really an anomaly. But, it does happen. Occasionally, I also receive emails from Unum employees who tell me the company is great and they love it.
In working with insureds and claimants for over 20 years, I’ve come to the conclusion that nearly all disabled insureds want is to provide their insurance companies with proof they are disabled, do the right thing, and continue to receive benefits. For the most part insureds do not want to hassle with insurers, and just want to take care of themselves in order to get well.
Having a disability claim is NOT all bad. While the concept of “risk management” causes some companies to act in unfair ways, insurers don’t do “everything wrong.” It is possible to properly support claims to the point of positive success, defined as continuing to receive benefits as long as claims are medically supported.
I have actually been known from time to time to support the actions of insurers when I feel they are right. Insureds can always trust me to give them accurate information regardless of who is right or wrong. DCS, Inc. has long been supporting “what is right” regardless of whether it is an insured or insurer.
I realize the Internet is full of horror stories when it comes to disability claims, and I admittedly include my blog in that description. My opinion is that it is better to be informed than not, but often my informational view is often taken to mean that disability claims “are all bad.” And clearly, that’s not true.
Therefore, as 2019 comes to an end, let’s not drink the Kool-Aid, but rather strive to manage disability claims using the best information available and be positive about the outcomes.
In fact, 2020 can potentially be a much better year with positive attitudes and learning to support claims with a new outlook and our own “new normal.”
Again, my best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!
