Rheumatoid Arthritis and Long-Term Disability

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder that can significantly affect your daily and professional life. If this condition affects your ability to work, you might be eligible to file a long-term disability claim.

Although you may be suffering from this condition, you do not just automatically qualify for LTD benefits. You must build a strong case to show how it negatively affects your everyday functions and work. Even with relatively clear evidence that your condition is affecting your daily life, it's common to be denied at first.

Contrary to popular belief, insurance providers will seek any excuse to deny your long-term disability claim. Providers will find a way to deny you through exclusionary clauses, the condition only affecting you for certain periods, or a lack of objective evidence.

How to Build a Strong Case

The first step to take is to review your insurance provider's policies regarding disability and limitations that might be used against your condition. Gather well-documented testing results around your arthritis from a healthcare professional and any reasons why you cannot perform functional tasks at your job.

Your healthcare professional will recommend what tasks you can perform based on a series of objective tests assessing your mobility, range of movement and functionality. Some tests may include your ability to stand for long periods, lift objects, grasp strength, use stairs, sit at a desk, or use a keyboard. This list is usually tailored to your situation, including a focus on any tasks you may complete at work in addition to everyday functions.

From the beginning, you should have your doctor document a progression of your symptoms to provide a clear timeline for your condition status – especially if your arthritis worsens. It is imperative that you follow treatment plans and recommendations that your healthcare professional prescribes to prove that you are actively trying to improve your condition.

A daily journal of your pain and task limitation experience is also crucial to proving your need for long-term disability benefits. Keep track of any side effects that you are experiencing as a result of your medication as well.

If You've Been Denied a Long-Term Disability Claim for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Your claim got denied, and you don't know why? That's why we're here. At Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers, we will fight for your long-term disability denial. We know this is a difficult time for you and that these benefits will help recuperate some of the loss as a result of your condition affecting you.

With over 40 years of experience in defending clients to get the benefits they deserve, Findlay's long-term disability lawyers will ensure a positive outcome. We will personally review your unique situation and build a strong case that won't be denied again. Give us a call at 905-522-9799 to get a free consultation and more information on how we can help you.