Your disability insurance is there to protect your income, lifestyle, and financial future—but do you know how to use it when the time comes? Filing a claim can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing a busy medical career with health challenges.
Here’s exactly what you need to know to file your claim smoothly and avoid common mistakes.
Even highly prepared doctors can run into issues when filing a disability claim. The biggest mistakes to avoid:
🚨 Waiting too long to file – Delaying can put your benefits at risk.
📑 Incomplete documentation – Missing records can slow or even derail your claim.
❌ Misunderstanding policy terms – Not knowing your coverage can lead to unpleasant surprises.
Many physicians hesitate because they’re focused on patient care or unsure whether their condition qualifies. Being proactive ensures you get the benefits you’re entitled to.
Many doctors assume they should wait until they’re completely unable to work before filing a disability claim. That’s a myth.
Most own-occupation policies for physicians cover both total and partial disabilities—meaning you can file even if you’re still working in a reduced capacity.
👉 Instead: File as soon as your condition starts affecting your ability to perform your specific medical specialty.
For example, if you’re a surgeon with a hand tremor, you shouldn’t wait until you’re unable to operate at all. If the tremor is already limiting your ability to perform surgeries safely, it’s time to file.
⏳ Filing early is critical because most policies include an elimination period (a waiting period before benefits begin). The sooner you file, the sooner this clock starts ticking.
Physicians need to provide detailed documentation to ensure a smooth claims process. A simple note from your doctor won’t be enough. Make sure you have:
✅ Medical records from all treating providers, including diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
✅ A detailed physician statement explaining how your condition affects your ability to practice medicine
✅ Employment records showing your specialty, duties, and income
✅ Any relevant test results (e.g., MRI, nerve conduction studies) that support your claim
For example, if you’re an anesthesiologist experiencing severe migraines, your documentation should include reports from your neurologist, work logs showing missed procedures, and details on how your condition impacts your ability to safely administer anesthesia.
💡 Key takeaway: The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your claim.
Step 3: Navigate the Claim Process
Filing a claim isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. Physicians must stay actively involved to avoid delays or denials.
📌 Here’s how to take control of your claim:
1️⃣ Notify your insurer as soon as you recognize the need to file.
2️⃣ Submit all required paperwork promptly and accurately.
3️⃣ Keep a log of all communications with your insurer.
4️⃣ Follow up regularly to ensure your claim is moving forward.
5️⃣ Be prepared for an independent medical exam (IME), if required.
For example, if you’re an ER physician filing a claim for PTSD, don’t just submit your paperwork and hope for the best. Stay in contact with your insurer, respond to any additional requests quickly, and ensure your psychiatrist documents your condition clearly.
🔎 Important: Insurance companies require you file the claim directly to them. Even though brokers and agents can not file claims for you, Pattern is happy to help you understand the process and point you in the right direction if you need assistance.
If you’re a physician without true own-occupation disability insurance, now is the time to secure your financial future. The best way to avoid a stressful claims process is to have the right policy in place before you need it.
Get your disability insurance policy today:
👉 Compare top-rated policies now