Medical Evidence in Long Term Disability Claims

Long-term disabilities can occur due to sudden accidents, illnesses, or chronic health conditions. When these keep you from working or performing important tasks at your job, long term disability (LTD) insurance can help offset your losses in income. Unfortunately, not documenting your cognition thoroughly can result in LTD benefit denials and delays. The following details some of the different types of medical evidence you will likely need to file a successful claim. 

Begin Now to Document Your Condition

People often think long term disabilities will not happen to them. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reports that a quarter of current 20-year-olds will become disabled before reaching retirement age. Long-term disabilities often occur due to ongoing health issues that progressively get worse over the years. Once you are unable to work, disability benefits provided through your employer can help you continue to make ends meet. 

In filing a long term disability claim, you will be expected to carefully document your condition. Being thorough in providing medical evidence is key to getting your claim approved. Steps you need to take now to ensure you have the information you need include: 

• Visit your doctor regularly;
• Report all symptoms you experience;
• Follow their instructions regarding testing and treatment;
• Keep a journal detailing your condition, any impairments you suffer, and the impact your condition has on other areas of your life. 

Medical Evidence in Support of Your LTD Claim

In addition to the above steps, check the terms of any long term disability insurance policies you have in place through your employer to make sure your condition is covered. Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), your employer is required to provide a copy of these documents free of charge at your request. When the time comes to file your claim, medical evidence you will need to gather includes: 

• All medical records pertaining to your condition, which show it is progression over the previous months or years;
• Statements from your doctor and any specialists who were involved in diagnosing or treating your condition;
• Results from x-rays, blood work, and other diagnostic tests;
• Records from any hospital or emergency room visits;
• A list of all medications you have taken during the course of treatment;
• Any physical therapy or rehabilitative programs in which you participated. 

Our Chicago Long Term Disability Attorney is Here to Help

Long term disability benefits can provide a lifeline if you are unable to work. At Bartolic Law, we can help you gather the medical evidence needed in support of your claim. To discuss your particular case, call or contact our Chicago long term disability attorney online and request a consultation today.