I’ve been on LTD since April 2017. I returned to work for 6 months in 2018 and then had to go back off in Aug 2018 under the recurrent provision. I am not sure if my 2 year change of definition is April 2018 or if it would extended 6 months because I returned to work for 6 months during my LTD period. Today I received a call from my doctor saying the insurance company wants all my medical records going back to 2018. I gave permission to do this but I am wondering what this means. Is this normal process before the 2 year mark. Thanks
It is not unusual for an insurance company to want the complete medical records, especially in situations where there was an unsuccessful return to work. Insurance companies have behind-the-scenes doctors who review the claim and give advice. Often these doctors want to see the full medical records so they can give a better opinion. One of the criticisms they face is giving opinions without having all the information. We we represent a client we always provide the full medical records because it helps with getting an approval.
The change of definition under most policies will not change based on a recurrent disability. It would only change if there was a new claim.
David Brannen
Disability Lawyer with Resolute Legal
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So to be clear, I am using up a portion of my 24 months of “own occupation” ltd during the 6 months that I had returned to work in 2018.
Yes, if it was there was a recurrence (as defined by policy), then it is treated as a continuous claim.