Disability Claims for Doctors Attorney

Professional Disability Claims for Doctors Lawyer Serving Clients Around the Country

Navigating the complexities of disability claims can be daunting for anyone, but for doctors, the stakes are uniquely high. Physicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, often at the expense of their own health. When a medical condition or injury prevents a doctor from practicing, securing disability benefits becomes critical to maintaining financial stability and personal well-being. At Eric Buchanan & Associates, we understand the unique challenges doctors face when filing disability claims. Our experienced disability claims for doctors attorney specializes in helping medical professionals obtain the benefits they deserve.

Why Doctors Face Unique Challenges in Disability Claims

Doctors operate in a high-stakes, high-pressure environment that demands precision, long hours, and emotional resilience. Whether it’s a surgeon performing intricate procedures, a primary care physician managing complex patient cases, or an anesthesiologist monitoring critical vitals, the inability to perform these duties due to a disability can be devastating. However, filing a disability claim as a doctor is not as straightforward as it may seem.

Many doctors have private disability insurance policies in addition to employer-provided plans. These policies often include specific provisions, such as “own occupation” coverage, which defines disability as the inability to perform the duties of one’s specific medical specialty. For example, a cardiologist who can no longer perform invasive procedures but can still teach or consult may face resistance from insurers who argue they are not “totally disabled.” Insurance companies frequently scrutinize claims from high-earning professionals like doctors, employing tactics to delay, deny, or underpay benefits.

Additionally, doctors may encounter challenges documenting their disability. Medical professionals are often reluctant to seek treatment for their own conditions, fearing professional repercussions or stigma. This can result in incomplete medical records, which insurers may use to question the severity of a condition. Mental health issues, such as burnout or anxiety, are particularly challenging to prove, yet they are increasingly common among physicians.

The Role of a Disability Claims Attorney

A disability claims attorney with experience representing doctors can be an invaluable ally in navigating these challenges. At Eric Buchanan & Associates, our attorneys bring specialized knowledge of the medical field and insurance industry practices to advocate for physicians. Here’s how we can help:

1. Understanding Your Policy

Disability insurance policies are complex legal documents filled with technical language and fine print. An attorney can thoroughly review your policy to identify key provisions, such as “own occupation” or “residual disability” clauses, and explain how they apply to your situation. For doctors, this is critical, as policies often vary based on specialty, income level, and the insurer’s definition of disability.

2. Building a Strong Claim

Filing a successful disability claim requires meticulous documentation. Our attorneys work with you to gather comprehensive medical records, specialist reports, and expert opinions to substantiate your condition. For instance, if a neurologist develops a tremor that prevents them from performing procedures, we collaborate with medical experts to demonstrate how this impacts their ability to practice. We also help address gaps in treatment history, ensuring your claim is robust and defensible.

3. Countering Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies often employ strategies to minimize payouts, such as requesting excessive documentation, conducting surveillance, or disputing the extent of your disability. Our attorneys are well-versed in these tactics and know how to counter them. We handle all communications with the insurer, protecting you from bad-faith practices and ensuring your claim is evaluated fairly.

4. Appealing Denials

If your claim has been denied, don’t lose hope. Denials are common, especially for high-income professionals like doctors. Our team at Eric Buchanan & Associates has extensive experience appealing denials, whether through administrative reviews or litigation. We analyze the denial letter, identify errors, and build a compelling case to overturn the decision.

5. Maximizing Benefits

Doctors often have multiple sources of disability coverage, including private policies, group plans, and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Coordinating these benefits can be complex, as offsets or overpayments may reduce your total compensation. Our attorneys ensure you receive the maximum benefits you’re entitled to while avoiding pitfalls that could jeopardize your financial security.

Why Choose Eric Buchanan & Associates?

At Eric Buchanan & Associates, we pride ourselves on our deep understanding of the medical profession and the unique needs of doctors. Our founder, Eric Buchanan, has decades of experience representing physicians across specialties, from orthopedic surgeons to psychiatrists. We recognize that a disability claim is not just about financial compensation—it’s about protecting your career, reputation, and future.

Our approach is client-centered, combining compassion with tenacity. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your medical condition, and tailor our strategy to your specific circumstances. Whether you’re dealing with a physical injury, a chronic illness, or a mental health condition, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Real Results for Real Doctors

Consider the case of Dr. Jane, a pediatrician who developed severe carpal tunnel syndrome that prevented her from performing exams or procedures. Her insurer initially denied her claim, arguing she could still work in an administrative role. Our team reviewed her policy, gathered expert testimony from a hand surgeon, and successfully appealed the denial, securing full “own occupation” benefits. Stories like Dr. Jane’s are why we do what we do.

Take the First Step Today

If you’re a doctor facing a disability that prevents you from practicing, don’t navigate the claims process alone. The experienced attorneys at Eric Buchanan & Associates are here to help you secure the benefits you’ve earned. Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your health and well-being.