Unfortunately, due to the ups-and-downs, relapse-and-remission cycle of MS, underwriters often wind up denying MS patients the benefits they deserve. The problem is, with MS, not every day is a bad day, and when you look mobile and active, even though the next day you may not be for several hours, it looks like, in the eyes of the insurance company, that your claim is not valid.
With multiple sclerosis, you need to ensure that your claim is as thorough as possible, so that it will be harder for the insurance company to deny it. You also need to be aware of what to expect in the long-term. Even if you have only just been diagnosed and are still anticipating many years of good health, you should begin to educate yourself on the long-term disability process and start preparing for the challenges ahead.
Doctors Are Here to Help
Most doctors want to help their patients as much as possible, and that includes helping them get the insurance they need when their illness renders them unable to work. However, doctors do not always have familiarity with the application process, and might not know what they need to do early in the process to help your insurance claim later on. Learn how the insurance process works as soon as possible so that you and your doctor can plan ahead.
Know What You Are Up Against
Typically, MS patients will go through cycles of remission and relapse, where they will need temporary breaks from work, until, eventually, the symptoms become pertinent enough to require permanent leave. Furthermore, even when a patient is in a bad period of the disease, they will sometimes have good days when they are relatively symptom-free.
Because your work history will show that you left and then returned to work time and time again, the insurance company may feel that you will be able to return again-this time is no different. Work with your doctor to document your symptoms over the years so that you can prove that this time, you need to leave work permanently.
There are times when insurance companies use video surveillance to back up their denial of a claim. This is why it is very important to document the progression of your disease so you also have evidence to support your side.
Never Give Up
Even if you are prepared and file a perfect claim, insurance companies will sometimes deny it. This is an injustice, and will probably make you feel horrible, as if you have been falsely accused of lying. However, know that you can appeal their decision and keep fighting to ensure that you get the benefits you need and deserve. And do not forget to diversify your insurance options. Great way to do this is to use additional online service. Such resources will share your quote over their partners and independent brokers and provide more options from different resources for applicant.
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to work with a broker to ensure you get the best possible policy in place for your needs, and to get the help you need with your claims.