Most people who believe they are claim disabled usually dig out their Plan or policy from the attic and look for the definition of disability. From that point on, many mistakenly attempt to fit their medical situation and circumstances into what they interpret and believe the policy says.
I have never communicated or taught insureds this type of wrong thinking. Let me explain. There are many individuals who go to work everyday even when they are treated for conditions that produce fatigue, mild cognitive issues, migraines and pain. It might be tough for them in terms of having to manage a medical condition AND work, but they still can work and they do.
It is never a good idea for people to attempt to “fit” their circumstances into policy wording because insurance companies will NOT gladly approve a square peg into a round hole.” In addition, the definition of disability Plan or policy ALWAYS associates occupation or job as part of the criteria. Therefore, just having a nuisance medical condition does not qualify anyone for a disability claim.
So what does you might ask? Well, I have the answers, which you might consider using as a checklist for a probable claim.
- Do you have a medical history of a progressive disease for at least 6 months? And, have you been in treatment for a medical condition frequently enough to establish a medical history?
- Are you able to perform some, but not all duties of your regular occupation?
- Have you attempted to adjust or decrease the number of hours you are able to work?
- Have your supervisors placed you on probation; or, suggested it’s time to apply for disability?
- Have you been injured at work in a way that relates to your medical condition?
- Are your peers taking over some of your work duties or responsibilities?
- Have you been asked by your manager to consider changing to another job description?
- Have you used up all of your FMLA, PTO or sick time within the same year?
- Have you had to go out on STD more than once?
- Do you cry at work, or become easily angry or frustrated?
- If you deal with the public, have there been complaints reported?
If you relate to most, or some of the above, then perhaps filing a claim for disability would be a good idea. Again, it is never a good idea to take a set of medical symptoms and try to fit them into the “occupational” definitions. It’s a very obvious attempt to secure a disability claim, and insurance companies are smart enough to figure it out.
However, if you find it more and more difficult to continue working due to a medical condition, a disability claim should be filed. Just remember that a medical condition does not = a disability claim. Insureds should be able to prove with patient and medical records that working is not possible, or that working will likely contribute to worsening of the medical impairment.
http://www.disabilityclaimssolutions.com
