Covid-19 testing and LTD benefits.

The lack of Covid-19 testing should have no impact on whether a long-term disability (LTD) claim is successful. With the shortage of PCR tests and the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, many are concerned that their inability to confirm Covid-19 through a positive PCR test will prevent them from getting approved for LTD benefits if they remain disabled from work.   Diagnosis not a prerequisite to getting benefits   A diagnosis of COVID-19, or any diagnosis, is not a prerequisite to getting LTD benefits. Look at the language of any standard LTD policy and you will find nothing...

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When returning to work is a risky proposition.

As workplaces slowly begin to reopen over the next several weeks and months, many of us might feel anxious about returning to work and the possibility of being exposed to COVID-19. However, if you are someone who has a medical condition that puts you at an increased risk for serious complications from COVID-19, you might decide that returning to work right now is not worth the risk. If you do decide not to return to work, you might be wondering whether you can apply for disability insurance benefits (such as short-term or long-term disability benefits), either through your employer’s group...

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Will it hurt my LTD claim if I cannot get in to see my doctor?

I represent people whose disability claims have been terminated or denied. A number of claims are denied on the basis that the insured has either been (a) not been receiving enough treatment or (b) not receiving the right treatment. This is typically a requirement under your insurance policy. During this period of self-isolation and social distancing due to COVID-19, and with fewer doctors scheduling appointments during this time, this requirement to get treatment becomes more difficult. I’ve been receiving a number of phone calls from concerned clients who have told me that they are having...

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What if I cannot work because the pandemic is affecting my mental health?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty for individuals across our country.  For many, the fear of contracting and transmitting the coronavirus and the struggles with self-isolation have led to severe anxiety, depression and other forms of psychological harm.  Several of our clients have reached out to us already with these growing concerns.  So, don’t worry – you’re not alone! You may be asking yourself: Will I get the coronavirus? If so, how serious will it be? Will I be able to get the right treatment for the coronavirus?  How about for my...

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