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Four Types of Disability Claims That Are Frequently Denied

By Ben Glass

While just about any injury or ailment has the potential to be denied disability benefits, some tend to be turned down more often. Unum Group, which is one of the largest insurance companies, has stated that it denies almost 10 percent of the claims that are received.

In the March 2010 issue of SmartMoney, there was an article that listed some of the medical conditions that are frequently denied disability benefits. The article, 'Too Sick to Work? They Disagree,' listed the following as the conditions that are commonly turned down:

• Back Pain: If you file a disability claim for back pain, expect to be heavily scrutinized. It's even worse if you don't have a straightforward injury. Don't be surprised if you discover that the insurer had someone following you to catch you doing something that doesn't coincide with your claim.

• Pregnancy Complications: A third-party claims reviewer in Florida said that about 25 percent of the contested denials he sees are related to pregnancy. Maternity-related conditions may include bed rest following birth or a difficult C-section.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Over the last decade, there have been advancements in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, including surgery. However, not everyone feels comfortable going the surgical route. Insurers sometimes decide that if the claimant forgoes surgery, he or she is ineligible for benefits.

• Mental Health: The therapist's notes may not be off limits for the insurance company. A simple statement made by the patient, such as feeling 'much improved,' could be used by the insurer as a justification to stop payments.

When it comes to disability claims, the sooner you contact a Virginia disability insurance lawyer, the better.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Ben Glass

Full post as published by Northern Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer on April 30, 2010 (boomark / email).