If you’re putting together a long term disability claim, one of the main pieces of evidence you need in order to create a strong case are medical report forms from your doctor. Many successful disability claims rely on having a doctor’s diagnosis and opinion that support the fact that you are unable to work. Without a doctor’s support, it’s very difficult to convince an insurance company that you’re unable to work. That being said, sometimes it can be difficult to get your doctor to complete the appropriate forms or agree that you cannot perform your work functions. This is something a long term disability lawyer sees all the time, and can offer some advice if you’re in this situation.
Many think that they’re helpless when waiting on their doctor to fill out medical forms. Or even confused as to why their doctor isn’t completing the forms out at all. A long term disability lawyer is familiar with this situation and has found that some common reasons are: your doctor doesn’t believe your disability is severe enough, it’s not their top priority, they don’t support the benefit programs, or they simply require you to pay a fee before releasing the forms.
Severity of Your Disability
Doctors can be unfamiliar with what qualifies a person to be disabled in the eyes of an insurance company. They might believe you’re able to function in some ways and in turn do not believe you to be “fully disabled”. However, you can explain to your doctor how your disability is impacting your ability to work. If your doctor is still unconvinced, bring in a copy of Service Canada’s definition of a disability so they can compare your disability to those accepted for a long term disability claim.
It’s important that your doctor outlines your current condition and limitations as well as short and long term plans to work towards recovery and your commitment to follow these plans.
Not a Priority
Doctors are busy, and filling out paperwork is not likely to be at the top of their to-do list. Be persistent, these papers are a key piece in your long term disability claim. It’s okay to follow up with your doctor by calling or emailing in order to ensure that your request doesn’t get forgotten or get moved to the bottom of the pile.
Against Benefit Programs
Your doctor doesn’t have a problem with you, but the actual program. The best advice we can offer is to explain to your doctor how you’re unable to work and that this is your best option. If they’re still reluctant to fill out the forms, you can see another doctor but keep in mind this doesn’t look good on you. A long term disability lawyer wouldn’t recommend this option as an insurance company will question why you decided to change doctors in the middle of your claim.
Going through the process of filing for long term disability can be very stressful, add in an unsupportive doctor and it can feel like a nightmare. If you’re still at a loss as to what you need to do to get the necessary medical reports in order to solidify your claim, reach out for a second opinion. A long term disability lawyer will be able to walk you through all of your options and help your proceed with your claim.