Radiologist Disability Insurance Information You Should Know
If you work as a Radiologist and are in need of disability benefits, it is important to understand what it takes to get your long term disability claim approved. Our disability lawyers have helped hundreds of Radiologists nationwide and we know what the disability insurance companies require in order for your long term disability benefits to get paid. In our Radiologist Disability Insurance video, attorneys Gregory Dell and Cesar Gavidia discuss common disability insurance claim issues related to Radiologists, whether you are already on disability, have been denied disability, or if you are planning to file a disability claim.
Topics Discussed On This Page:
How Do Disability Companies Define the Occupation of a Radiologist?
The job duties of a Radiologist will vary significantly, depending on what clinic or hospital you work for and in what area of medicine you practice, so it is important that insurance companies understand these potential variances. The definition of disability in most group and individual plans is often very broadly defined and will look at your occupation as a Radiologist as it is performed in the national economy, and not focus on what you may actually do for your employer. In other words, the insurance company may ignore some of the duties you perform on a daily basis when reviewing your disability claim to include traveling, lifting requirements, and how much you may need to walk. There is no broad-sweeping definition of a Radiologist or Interventional Radiologist. It will be important to explain all of the duties you are required to perform.
What Can You Do To Clarify The Demands Of Your Occupation?
Insurance companies have a tendency to make your occupation very black and white with respect to the physical and mental demands and will fall back on the DOT description even though it is likely not relevant, and will want to simply say your occupation is “sedentary” or “light”, so it is crucial that you ensure the insurance company understands the full scope of what is required in your occupation. The insurance company is going to try and simplify your occupation as much as possible. They will not take into account the cognitive demands and the degree of focus required to work as a Radiologist with little to no room for error. Suggesting that a Radiologist merely sits at a desk all day is a complete disservice to how demanding the occupation of a Radiologist is, both physically and mentally. It is crucial that you explain all of the demands of your occupation as a Radiologist in as much detail as possible.
Can You File For Residual Disability Benefits While Working Part-Time?
You can file a claim for disability even if you can work part-time and not yet claim total disability. Your efforts to continue working establishes your credibility and desire to continue working, even if it is challenging. If, down the road, you have to file for total disability and not work at all you have demonstrated that you are driven to return to work and that is the ultimate goal, but your medical condition, symptoms, and limited level of function, has simply made that impossible. Performing some of your duties but not all, may still make you eligible for residual disability benefits under the Plan.
How Do You Win Long Term Disability Benefits?
Having a strategic plan in place before applying for long term disability benefits, or if your claim is denied and you need to appeal is crucial. With all disability claims, establishing and continuing regular care with your treating physicians and being able to provide medical support for why your condition interferes with your ability to perform your occupation as a Radiologist is what is required to win your long term disability benefits. Having a conversation with your physician, and documenting those conversations and medical findings to support your inability to work is a necessary step in getting your disability claim approved.
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Insurance companies primarily determine if you are disabled as a Radiologist based on the medical evidence and the restrictions provided by your medical providers. Insurance companies may not dispute your diagnosis, but the adage we often hear is that a diagnosis does not equal disability in the eyes of the insurance company. More often than not they will dispute the restrictions and statements of your physicians with their own medical reviewers. Explaining why you cannot work and perform all or even some of your normal work duties to your physician is essential. You must have a strategic plan regarding your long term disability claim and be prepared to provide detailed medical and vocational evidence to get your claim approved.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You Get Approved for Disability Benefits
You should search our website and learn much more information about your disability insurance company and the process of obtaining short or long term disability benefits. We have already represented hundreds of Radiologists and we know what to expect and know how to help you. We represent claimants nationwide and have hundreds of references available. Give our attorneys a call and we will provide you with an initial free review of your policy or your denial letter if you’ve been denied. We will let you know right away if we can assist with your disability claim.
