I have been off work for close to a month now. STD claim submitted immediately. Initial phone call with case manager was rough. She asked the basic questions, didn’t provide her name nor case number and call ended in 5 mins. There was numerous issues with the documents submitted from my work’s end and in a subsequent phone call with the case manager, her lack of empathy actually triggered a panic attack which would have been recorded on their side. I’m off work due to severe anxiety secondary to pregnancy.
It’s now been 4 weeks of back and forth of them wanting more information from Doctor and dr’s chart. These 4 weeks have been extremely triggering and stressful for me. Leading to me developing even more symptoms including self harm. Dr has now prescribed meds and referred me to a psychiatrist whereas we were trying to manage via counselling previously.
My question is do I voluntarily provide this updated info on my anxiety progression to the case manager? Will this strengthen my case or will they make it even more difficult for me in determination?
Sorry that you are experiencing such anxiety. I requested communication be conducted via email. It was helpful to have the time to prepare clear responses to questions and the documentation as a record.
Do you have an email address to send a statement requesting all communications be conducted via email for health reasons?
Diagnosis, charts, medications being used, and upcoming treatments are all good things for you and your doctor to communicate to the insurer, but the most important thing is that it’s always presented in a way that clearly communicates to your insurer that you can not currently perform the duties of your job.
Anytime I help someone get their insurance applications sorted out, I always have them get a letter from their doctor that says:
They are under Dr.X care for xyz symptoms/diagnosis.
That the xyz symptoms prevent Jane/John Doe from performing all their work functions.
Upcoming treatments for their condition are abc, xyz, etc.
The letter is usually short and to the point. It always help move things along in approval of STD.
I can’t state enough it’s not your “diagnosis” but your “symptoms that prevent you from working” that are the most important part of your case.
Also as suggested by others, move the conversation to email.
