Documenting a physical disability typically means your insurer can see what is wrong with you, but what about when it comes to mental health disabilities? These can be much harder to prove, and therefore, it is more difficult to receive the benefits you need. Many people avoid getting the help and treatment they need because they don’t know where to begin.
HOW TO DOCUMENT YOUR CLAIM
First, be sure you have seen your doctor and they agree that you have a mental illness that requires assistance. If this is the case, schedule regular appointments with your doctor and keep working on the path to wellness. This is crucial to having your claim accepted.
Next, make sure you have your doctor send all the necessary information to your long-term disability carrier. This includes medical records that tie into your mental illness from all doctors and facilities that have helped you work toward recovery.
WHAT YOUR DOCTOR SHOULD NOTE
Your long-term disability carrier should contact your doctor to ask about your mental illness and how it has affected your work. However, their documentation may not show the whole picture which could decrease your chances of your claim being accepted. Make sure your doctor documents the following:
- How often you are late to work or absent
- If you have difficulty focusing
- Staying focused on tasks
- How well you remember instructions and execute them
- Interaction with coworkers, clients, and management
Your doctor also needs to note if he or she has restricted you from working in order to help your recovery.
To learn more, contact the lawyers at The ERISA Law Center today for for a consultation.