Overcoming Insurance Tactics in Fibromyalgia Disability Cases

Navigating the complex world of disability insurance claims can be challenging, especially when it comes to conditions like fibromyalgia. Insurance companies use various tactics to deny or delay benefits for those suffering from this debilitating condition. However, with the right approach and legal expertise, individuals with fibromyalgia can overcome these obstacles and get the disability benefits they deserve.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Anyone can get fibromyalgia, but more women get it than men. It can affect people of any age, even children, but it usually starts in middle age, and the chance of having it increases as you get older. It occurs in people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.The subjective nature of its symptoms, along with the lack of definitive diagnostic tests, can make it challenging for individuals to prove the severity of their condition to insurance companies. Insurance companies often dismiss or downplay the impact of fibromyalgia, often citing a lack of “objective” evidence to support the disability.

They may also employ these tactics to deny or delay claims:

• Requesting unnecessary medical examinations or tests

• Questioning the credibility of the insured’s symptoms, which implicitly questions the credibility of the insured

• Hiring alleged “independent” medical experts to provide biased opinions

• Imposing arbitrary and unreasonable deadlines and documentation requirements

To overcome these tactics, individuals with fibromyalgia must be proactive and work closely with experienced disability attorneys. Here are some key strategies that can help:

1. Gather comprehensive medical documentation: Ensure that your medical records thoroughly document the progression of your fibromyalgia, including detailed accounts of your symptoms, treatment plans, and the impact on your daily activities. This documentation is crucial in demonstrating the severity of your condition to the insurance company.

2. Get supportive medical opinions: Work with your healthcare providers to obtain detailed, well-reasoned medical opinions that support your disability claim. These opinions should address the specific functional limitations imposed by your fibromyalgia and how they prevent you from performing your job duties.

3. Understand policy language and limitations: Carefully review your disability insurance policy to understand the specific criteria and requirements for obtaining benefits. This knowledge will help you navigate the claims process more effectively and identify potential areas of dispute.

4. Respond promptly to insurance requests: When faced with requests for additional information or medical examinations, respond quickly and thoroughly. Failure to comply with these requests may lead to further delays or even a denial of your claim.

5. Seek legal representation: Engaging an experienced disability attorney can be invaluable in navigating the complex legal and procedural aspects of your claim. A skilled lawyer can help you overcome the insurance company’s tactics, advocate on your behalf, and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

At Raval Trial Law, we know the unique challenges faced by individuals with fibromyalgia. We have a deep understanding of the legal and medical complexities surrounding these types of claims, having handled many of these claims through the claim process, appeal process, and litigation. We are committed to advocating for our clients’ rights and ensuring they receive the benefits they are entitled to.

We work closely with clients to build a comprehensive case, gathering medical evidence, obtaining supportive opinions from healthcare providers, and counter insurance companies’ unfair tactics. Our goal is to ensure that your voice is heard.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a fibromyalgia disability claim, contact us today. We are here to provide the guidance and support you need to secure the compensation you deserve.