Lyme Disease and Long-Term Disability Benefits in Canada

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is a complex illness transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. For individuals grappling with the debilitating effects of Lyme disease, obtaining long-term disability (LTD) benefits can be crucial for maintaining financial stability during periods of illness and treatment. However, denials of LTD benefits for Lyme disease are not uncommon, highlighting the importance of understanding your rights and seeking legal assistance when facing such challenges.

At Preszler Injury Lawyers, our team provides clients with Lyme disease assistance when applying for long-term disability benefits. If your claim has been denied, we’ll help you prepare an appeal to pursue the benefits you need while you recover. To discuss your situation, schedule a free initial consultation with our long-term disability lawyers now.

Understanding Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease can manifest in various stages and present a wide range of symptoms affecting the skin, joints, nervous system, and other body systems. Early symptoms may include:

• A characteristic bull’s-eye rash (erythema migrans)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle or joint pain
• And more

If caught early, antibiotics may be effective at treating Lyme Disease. However, left untreated, Lyme Disease can progress to more severe stages, leading to neurological complications, heart problems, and chronic symptoms affecting daily life and work capacity.

Lyme Disease and Long-Term Disability

Living with Lyme disease can be unpredictable, with symptoms fluctuating in intensity and duration. Chronic Lyme Disease, also known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), can cause persistent symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”), and muscle weakness, significantly impacting an individual’s ability to work and perform daily tasks.

Lyme disease, especially chronic cases- can be difficult to prove in disability claims due to symptoms that fluctuate and a lack of definitive diagnostic tests. When you do apply for LTD benefits for Lyme disease related symptoms, you’ll need to provide thorough medical documentation. It is also recommended that you have a legal advocate on your side to assist with the application.

Most LTD policies cover disabilities that prevent individuals from performing the material duties of their own occupation or any suitable occupation based on their skills, education, and experience. Lyme disease, especially in its chronic and debilitating forms, may qualify for LTD benefits if it significantly impairs your ability to work.

Pursuing LTD Benefits for Lyme Disease

To support your Lyme Disease disability claim, you may need:

• Medical Documentation: Comprehensive medical records documenting Lyme disease diagnosis, treatment history, symptoms, functional limitations, and impact on work capacity.
• Specialist Reports: Reports from infectious disease specialists, neurologists, rheumatologists, or other relevant healthcare providers detailing the severity of your condition, ongoing symptoms, and treatment plans.
• Functional Assessments: Evaluations from healthcare professionals or vocational experts assessing how Lyme Disease symptoms affect your ability to perform job-related tasks safely and effectively.

Can My Lyme Disease Benefits Be Denied?

LTD benefits for Lyme Disease may be denied for many reasons, including:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence: Lack of detailed documentation supporting the severity and persistence of Lyme disease symptoms, functional limitations, and work-related impairments.
• Disability Definition Interpretation: Differences in interpreting occupational duties, work restrictions, and suitable job alternatives based on Lyme disease-related health status and functional abilities.
• Policy Limitations: Policy exclusions, waiting periods, or limitations specific to certain medical conditions, chronic illnesses, or pre-existing conditions related to Lyme disease.

Denials of Lyme Disease LTD claims can stem from challenges in proving ongoing disability, demonstrating work-related limitations, or facing policy-related restrictions. Insurers may also question the necessity of ongoing treatments, accommodations, or job modifications needed due to Lyme disease symptoms and complications.

In the event that your LTD benefits for Lyme disease are denied, you may pursue an appeal against your insurance company. This will involve reviewing the denial letter you received and compiling additional evidence to prove that you require benefits for your disability. With the help of an experienced long-term disability lawyer, you can craft a compelling appeal in order to pursue the LTD benefits you’re entitled to. LTD lawyers with special experience handling Lyme disease-related cases will know what evidence to gather and present to strengthen your claim.

Contact a Disability Lawyer About LTD Benefits for Lyme Disease Today

Dealing with LTD benefit denials for Lyme disease can be daunting, but legal support can significantly improve your chances of a successful appeal. Contact Preszler Injury Lawyers today to discuss your situation, understand your rights, and take proactive steps towards appealing and resolving your LTD denial. By doing so, you can pursue the financial support essential for managing Lyme Disease and maintaining your well-being.