Lincoln Financial Reverses Disability Denial After Attorney Challenges Flawed Medical Review and Vocational Analysis

Our client, a long-standing insurance broker with decades of experience, endured years of silent suffering due to multiple co-morbid conditions, including significant orthopedic and autoimmune impairments. Despite her unwavering commitment and extraordinary efforts to remain in the workforce, her health deteriorated to the point where continuing was no longer feasible. She ultimately filed a claim for disability benefits through Lincoln Financial.

While her initial claim was approved, Lincoln denied her short-term disability extension three months later, relying solely on a cursory review conducted by an in-house nurse lacking the appropriate qualifications to render a medical determination of her functional ability. Compounding this error, Lincoln failed to perform a proper vocational analysis to assess the actual physical and cognitive demands required of her occupation.

Recognizing the need for experienced legal representation, our client retained the Law Office of Justin C. Frankel, PC, to advocate for her entitlement to benefits. During the appeal process, we collaborated extensively with her treating physicians to develop a comprehensive and medically substantiated record of her ongoing symptoms, functional limitations, and restrictions. Additionally, we arranged for an independent neurological evaluation, which included a physical examination and a thorough review of her medical history. The resulting report provided an objective and credible assessment of her inability to perform her occupational duties.

Our firm challenged Lincoln’s procedural and substantive deficiencies at every turn. Prior to the expiration of the 45-day appeal review period, Lincoln reversed its denial, reinstated our client’s disability claim, and issued full payment of all past-due benefits. This outcome affirms our client’s right to receive the support she is entitled to under her policy and underscores the importance of rigorous advocacy in disability insurance matters.