As an orthopedic physician, you understand the difficulties people face when their bodies cannot move as they once could. Whether they’re suffering from a broken bone, a torn ligament, or stiffness in their joints, you recognize the value of getting them the care they need. That’s why, when you’re experiencing an illness or injury of your own, you want to be able to do what’s best for your long-term well-being. This may mean seeking long-term disability benefits.
As long-term disability insurance attorneys for orthopedic physicians and working people of all types, Capitan Law understands what injury means. It keeps you from doing the work you love, and your inability to work is a personal loss as well as a loss for the greater community. We believe in your legal right to access the long-term disability benefits you (or your employer) paid for and are committed to helping you pursue them.
Reach out to us at (267) 419-7888 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation. We look forward to discussing your circumstances and helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.
The Basics of Long-Term Disability Benefits for Orthopedic Physicians
The purpose of long-term disability insurance (LTD) is to provide financial security in the event you’re unable to work due to injury. If you’ve suffered an illness, injury, or other serious medical condition that makes it impossible for you to work and you previously purchased a long-term disability policy or your employer provides one, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits.
LTD differs from short-term disability benefits in the way you might expect — it offers extended coverage because your disability isn’t temporary. In some cases, LTD benefits last until you reach retirement age and beyond. The specific benefits vary depending on your policy, but there are several major benefits common to most LTD policies:
- Income Replacement — While long-term disability payments won’t make up for 100 percent of your income, they typically replace at least 50 percent. This helps create stability and predictability in your life, even when you’re dealing with your injury or illness.
- Annual Cost of Living Adjustments — The cost of living rises every year. Many LTD policies will adjust your benefits so they keep up with inflation. Being on a fixed income can be challenging, so having benefits that retain their value over time is helpful.
- Premium Waiver — Some insurance companies will waive your premium when you start collecting long-term disability benefits.
Talk to your attorney to learn more about the specific long-term disability benefits for orthopedic physicians available through your policy.
The Differences Between Long-Term Disability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation
LTD may sound similar to workers’ compensation, which is a state-run program that also provides benefits in the event of an injury or illness. However, there are some important differences between these two forms of financial support.
For starters, workers’ comp benefits are provided only for injuries, illnesses, and conditions arising out of and during your job. Contrast this with LTD benefits, which you may pursue for injuries or illnesses that have nothing to do with your job as an orthopedic physician. For example, if you go on vacation and injure yourself skiing or mountain biking, you wouldn’t be able to file a workers’ comp claim. However, you could claim LTD benefits in this scenario if your injuries prevented you from returning to work for an extended period.
There are several other major differences between LTD and workers’ comp. The workers’ comp program is mandatory for most employers, and as an employee, you aren’t responsible for paying into the system. LTD, on the other hand, relies on premium payments whether they’re provided by your employer or you purchase them independently.
The benefit amount and duration of coverage also vary. Workers’ comp payments differ depending on the state and are accessible for short or long-term needs. LTD is strictly a long-term option and replaces half or more of your income.
Common Disabling Health Conditions Among Orthopedic Physicians
Orthopedic physicians have a risk of dealing with a variety of injuries and illnesses due to their work, including:
- Radiation and chemical exposure
- Hearing loss due to noise exposure
- Musculoskeletal injuries due to ergonomic stress
- Repetitive stress injuries
The nature of these and other injuries can make it impossible for orthopedic physicians, particularly surgeons, to do their work to a high standard. In addition to these work-related illnesses and injuries, orthopedic physicians are subject to the same types of ailments as the rest of the public, including cancer, ALS, multiple sclerosis, and other devastating injuries. Long-term disability benefits for orthopedic physicians can replace some of the income lost due to being unable to work.
What Challenges Can Orthopedic Physicians Face When Trying to Get LTD Benefits?
If you’ve suffered an injury that prevents you from treating patients and continuing your career, you’re likely experiencing stress. But what if your long-term disability claim is denied? What if the insurance company is saying you don’t qualify?
Insurance companies may argue that they don’t owe benefit payments, even if you or your employer have been paying a premium. They may justify denying your claim because your injury or illness doesn’t meet their strict definition of a disability. Another potential reason for denial could be that they don’t believe you can no longer work.
Long-term disability insurance attorneys for orthopedic physicians are familiar with insurance companies’ arguments and tactics to avoid paying benefits. They understand the language of insurance policies and can explain what benefits your policy provides. When the insurance company tries to invoke technicalities to avoid approving your claim, your attorney can uphold your legal rights.
Let Us Help You Access Long Term Disability Benefits for Orthopedic Physicians
When you’re no longer able to work due to a disability, it can be disheartening to have your claim denied. The attorneys at Capitan Law focus exclusively on disability insurance cases, and we’re committed to pursuing positive outcomes for our clients. We’re happy to meet with you for a free, confidential consultation. We have offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey for clients who are facing challenges collecting their disability benefits.
Call (267) 419-7888 or contact us online to get started.
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