Late Application Filing Results In MetLife Denying A Physician's Long-Term Disability Claim
When Dr. Beatriz Martinez received a letter from MetLife denying her claim for long-term disability insurance, her only remaining option was to file a lawsuit. Unfortunately for her, the court upheld Met Life’s denial for one primary reason, she filed her claim for disability benefits four months too late. No arguments put forth by her attorneys could change that fact, and in the end, her appeal was denied, and she lost her lawsuit.
This issue arises far too frequently. Let’s look at Dr. Martinez’ story. There are important lessons for all of us.
I appreciate the article as I am in very similar situation, actually with Metlife and Sedgwick CMS. Here is my question?
What if the employer in this case had contributed to the disability, as in work place 'bullying' etc... , would the statute uphold? i.e; what if the workplace mismanagement was so stressful that the employee was too afraid to reach for the disability handle while still an employee?
The language on my former employer's LTD Policy (Hewlett Packard) mentions the year stipulation to file the claim but also conceeds that there can be situations that prevent someone from filing for their benefit. (retaliation, loss of job security). There is also the possibility the employee could have been misdiagnosed during attempted treatments (as is the case for me).
Why does a Plan that is intended to help people become so complicated and obscure that even bringing it to the attention of Exec. Management could be viewed as breaking the chain of command? In my opinion, Metlife should be EMBARRASSED that such a case was even taken to trial. Bad Snoopy, Bad Dog.... I hope the world sees this and shames MetLife into doing the right thing. MetLife broke the laws of my community ADA County, Idaho and then stole my house while making false police reports against me.... during a very ugly foreclosure process that was never meant to have taken place.
Now, it is embarrassing for them and I plan to take them to court in the future. Shame Shame on you Metlife.... welcome to the digital age where we (the World) can now see how you treat your most needing customers..
I will call the CEO of FHC in Florida after posting this and will see if he will take my call. This makes them look even worse...
I mean she went to the employer who cleary knew she had the disability and should have filed a claim FOR HER through her treatment and job re-asssignment). Pride and fear are probably the main causes her and if she can prove harrassment or intimidation I think she has a good appeal.... Why wouldn't FHC help her file a year ago??? They are in the health care field are they not? This is sad and I am calling FHC now....