Caught In The Middle: How To Handle Conflicting Medical Opinions In Fort Lauderdale Long-Term Disability Claims

If you’ve filed for long-term disability (LTD) benefits in Florida through your employer, your own doctor’s opinion isn’t the only one that matters. Insurers often bring in their own doctors or hire third-party “independent” reviewers to poke holes in your claim.

When facing conflicting medical opinions, don’t panic, but don’t ignore the situation either. Our experienced Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer explains how this situation often arises and what you can do to protect your rights to benefits.

Why Conflicting Medical Opinions Happen in Florida Long-Term Disability Claims

More than 2.5 million people in Florida suffer from long-term disabilities, according to the Florida Chamber Foundation. Of these, roughly half are in the workforce. When symptoms become severe enough to prevent you from working, you may be able to get long-term disability benefits through an employer-provided policy.

Keep in mind that insurers have financial motives to deny and dispute claims. One of their common tactics is hiring doctors to second-guess your medical records. Here’s how conflicting medical opinions often arise:

• The insurer’s doctor reviews your file and claims you’re capable of working.
• A vocational reviewer decides your condition isn’t disabling based on outdated job descriptions.
• A functional capacity evaluation doesn’t reflect your actual symptoms.
• Your doctor submits a short or vague note that’s easy for the insurer to dismiss.

Conflicting medical opinions put you in a tough spot and give insurers an excuse to deny or terminate your benefits.

How To Strengthen A Long-Term Disability Claim in Florida

Applying for long-term disability benefits in Florida through an employer-provided policy? Keep in mind that insurers look for ways to avoid payouts. To protect your rights in a claim, you need a strong strategy and clear documentation. Here’s how to fight back if denied payment:

• Request copies of all LTD policy documents from your employer, which they are required to provide under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, and carefully review the terms.
• Request detailed statements from your doctor explaining your medical condition and specific work-related limitations.
• Challenge biased medical reviews, especially if the insurer’s doctor never examined you.
• Submit a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) from a neutral third party if appropriate.
• Provide a vocational report that explains why your symptoms prevent you from doing any job, not just your prior one.

If your doctor supports your long-term disability claim, make sure their opinion is backed by detailed test results and other medical records and explained in clear terms to the insurer.

Disputed Benefits? Contact Our Experienced Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer Today

Conflicting medical opinions are a common reason for denied long-term disability benefits in Florida. Stuck between your doctor’s support and the insurer’s denial? Farrell Disability Law can step in.

We have the extensive experience and legal skills needed to deal with insurers on your behalf and gather the evidence to support a strong claim. To get what you are entitled to, contact our Florida long-term disability lawyer today and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office.

Sources:

flchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Employment-of-Floridians-with-a-Disability_2019.pdf

dol.gov/general/topic/retirement/erisa