Question

Can the LTD insurance company refuse to provide the claimant a copy of the IME report? If so what course of action can the claimant take to get a copy for their medical records?

Asked on November 23rd 2023 by Invisible Illness
I just completed an IME neuropsychological test for my Unum LTD review and I’ve been on disability going on 9 years. Well my exam was on 11/10 and I received an email today that my benefits will continue! Obviously I am super excited about this, but I really want a copy of the reports because I genuinely want to see if I have improved in any areas or gotten worse in any areas. I would be able to compare it to my testing in 2015. I was finally diagnosed with MS in 2021 so it really does matter to me what the specifics of the test are. My representative had told me previously that I might not get a copy of the report unless my case is denied. I would think that the significance of this test for someone with MS would be a permanent part of my medical record. Can they honestly refuse me a copy of this test just because they required it and paid for it? I mean I am the patient/claimant and the one who sat through the six hour exam, so I would think that I have a right to it and my doctors have a right to it. I wrote a letter, requesting it be sent to me or my doctors. If they call and tell me I cannot have a copy what’s is my next move? I am starting to think these people are trying to put me in the hospital because they are stressing me out so bad.

Answer

Answered on November 23rd 2023 by Attorney Rachel Alters

Yes, they can refuse. A copy will only be provided when your claim is denied. Have your treating doctor request it directly from the doctor that performed it. They should not refuse.