One of the most common questions disability insurance attorneys hear from clients is: "How do I talk to my doctor about going on long-term disability?"
Key Take Aways:
- Be honest and direct about your symptoms and why they are impairing
- Schedule a specific time to speak with your doctor about your disability claim
- Provide your doctor with the forms to be completed and provide input on how to complete them
It’s not an easy conversation to initiate. Many people feel anxious or even guilty about bringing it up, especially with a doctor they’ve known for years. But when you’re facing a real and debilitating health condition that prevents you from working, it’s not only appropriate to talk to your doctor about long-term disability—it’s essential.
At our disability insurance law firm, we help clients with ERISA long-term disability claims every day. A big part of that process is ensuring the treating physician understands the patient's medical condition, its functional impact, and why disability benefits are necessary. If you're preparing for this conversation with your doctor, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you approach it with confidence and clarity.
1. Remember Why You're Asking for Disability
Before you even walk into the doctor’s office, take a moment to ground yourself in the reality of your situation. You're not looking for a handout or trying to avoid work. You are genuinely unable to perform the duties of your job because of your medical condition. If you could work, you would. Your request for long-term disability isn't based on choice; it's based on necessity.
This mindset is crucial because it will shape the tone and clarity of your conversation with your physician. When you come from a place of honesty and vulnerability, your doctor is more likely to respond with empathy and support.
2. Understand Your Doctor's Role
Your doctor’s opinion is a cornerstone of your disability claim. Insurance companies place a great deal of weight on medical evidence provided by treating physicians. However, doctors aren’t disability lawyers—they may not be familiar with how disability insurance policies work or what kind of documentation is needed.
That’s why it’s so important to be clear and direct. Don’t just mention you're thinking about applying for disability and leave it at that. Instead, have a purposeful conversation where you explain that your condition has progressed to the point where working is no longer feasible, and you need their help in documenting that reality.
Claims are often denied simply because the medical records don't adequately explain or describe the severity of your symptoms or how they affect your ability to function in a work environment. Your doctor's support is critical in filling that gap.
3. Schedule a Specific Appointment for This Discussion
Rather than squeezing the conversation into a routine check-up, request a dedicated appointment to talk about your work limitations and the possibility of going on long-term disability. Let the office know ahead of time what the appointment is for so the doctor can allocate sufficient time.
During the appointment, speak openly about how your symptoms affect your daily life and job responsibilities. Use examples to describe how chronic pain prevents you from sitting or standing for long periods, or how fatigue or cognitive issues interfere with your ability to concentrate or complete tasks.
This heart-to-heart conversation can make a big difference. As we often advise our clients, your doctor has likely seen your struggle over time while prescribing medications, ordering tests, and recommending surgery or therapy. They're familiar with your condition, but they may not realize just how much it's affecting your work life unless you tell them directly.
4. Be Honest and Direct
When you speak with your doctor, be transparent about your limitations. This isn’t the time to "power through" or minimize your symptoms. If you’ve been trying to hang on at work despite severe pain, exhaustion, or mental health challenges, now is the time to be upfront about how much you're struggling.
Here’s an example of what you might say:
“I’ve been trying to keep up with work, but my condition has gotten to the point where I just can’t do it anymore. I’m constantly in pain and exhausted. I’m worried I’m making mistakes. My job is suffering, and so is my health. I believe I need to apply for long-term disability, and I’m hoping you’ll support me in that process.”
Your doctor doesn’t have to handle the legal or insurance paperwork alone, our firm will be there to guide them along the way and answer any questions. But ultimately, what we need from your doctor is a clear and accurate medical assessment that supports your disability claim.
5. Provide the Necessary Forms and Documentation
If you're filing a long-term disability claim through your employer's group insurance plan, there will likely be forms your doctor needs to complete. These usually include an Attending Physician Statement (APS) and possibly other forms required by the insurance company.
Make sure your doctor has what they need and understands the importance of providing specific, detailed responses. Vague comments like “the patient is disabled” aren’t enough. The forms should explain how your condition prevents you from performing the essential duties of your occupation.
We also recommend that your doctor’s chart notes reflect the same information—that your symptoms, treatment plan, and work restrictions are clearly documented in your medical records.
6. Follow Up With Gratitude and Updates
After the conversation and once your doctor has completed the necessary forms, follow up with a thank-you note or a message expressing your appreciation. Keep your doctor informed as your claim progresses. They may be contacted by the insurance company, and continued cooperation can be important throughout the process.
Final Thoughts
Talking to your doctor about going on long-term disability can feel intimidating, but it’s a crucial step in protecting your health and financial security. By approaching the conversation honestly, scheduling adequate time, and clearly explaining your limitations, you set the stage for your doctor to support your claim in a meaningful way.
Remember: your doctor is on your team. They’ve walked alongside you in your medical journey—now you need their help taking the next step.
Contact Dabdoub Law Firm Today
If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to handle your claim, an experienced long-term disability attorney can help you coordinate with your doctors, ensure proper documentation, and advocate for your rights. We are experts in disability insurance law and have represented clients across the country against every major insurance company. Call us to speak with an attorney today about your long-term disability insurance claim.