Lawyers for Optometrist Disability Claims

Understanding Disability Insurance for Optometrists

Disability insurance policies are designed to cover a portion of your income if you’re temporarily or permanently unable to work due to a health issue. There are typically two main types: disability income policies and group long term disability insurance offered through an employer.

Disability Income or Group Long Term Disability Coverage

Many optometrists will purchase private disability coverage. Disability income policies pay benefits if you are disabled from your own occupation. This coverage is valuable because you trained for years to be an optometrist, and have worked hard to establish your practice. If you have purchased own occupation long term disability insurance, you have done so for good reason. This coverage costs more than group disability insurance because it usually replaces a higher percentage of your income and it will continue to cover you even if you can perform a less skilled job which will earn you a lower income.

For optometrists, this type of coverage can be critical. You rely on your vision, mobility, and mental sharpness to prescribe corrective lenses, diagnose eye conditions, and manage detailed procedures. Even a mild or moderate condition can limit your ability to meet professional standards.

It’s important to understand the fine print in your policy, including the definition of own occupation, which determines whether you’ll qualify for disability benefits if you can no longer work in your specific role as an optometrist—even if you could technically work elsewhere.

Business Overhead Expense Insurance

Many professionals purchase additional disability insurance to pay money to cover other expenses associated with your business such as:

• employee salaries
• utilities
• rent or mortgage interest
• depreciation

Challenging Long Term Disability Claim Denials for Optometrists

Unfortunately, it’s common for insurance companies to deny certain claims. They may argue you’re not disabled enough or that your condition doesn’t meet the policy’s eligibility requirements. Some denials cite a lack of documentation or insufficient proof that your condition prevents you from fulfilling the limitations of your job.

Our attorneys understand how to challenge these denials. We review medical records, policy language, and appeal procedures to help determine why your long term disability claim was denied and how to build a stronger case. If you’re in this situation, don’t go it alone—assistance is available.

Medical Conditions That Interfere with Optometrists’ Work

Your ability to perform eye exams, interpret visual data, prescribe lenses, and counsel patients depends on many factors. A wide range of health issues can affect your performance, including:

• Vision impairment
• Neurological disorders
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Mental health conditions
• Autoimmune disorders
• Side effects from medication

Even minor changes in dexterity, concentration, or visual acuity may leave you unable to safely and effectively practice. If any of these conditions make it difficult to carry out your duties, you may be eligible for disability benefits.

Long Term Disability Insurance and Your Rights as an Optometrist

If you carry long term disability insurance, you have rights. Policies often contain confusing terminology and complex procedures, but fundamentally, they’re meant to provide financial benefits when you’re unable to perform your profession for an extended period.

Most long term disability insurance plans include a benefit period—the length of time you can receive benefits—and a maximum amount payable per month. Knowing your policy’s limits, exclusions, and how it defines disability is essential for asserting your claim properly.

If your insurance company denies your claim, consult with a professional to review the decision and see whether it can be appealed or litigated.

When Optometrists May Be Eligible for Disability Benefits

You are eligible for disability benefits if you’ve experienced a condition that significantly impairs your ability to work. Eligibility depends on meeting the policy’s own occupation standard and providing adequate medical proof that you’re unable to perform the duties specific to optometry.

This isn’t just about being sick—it’s about demonstrating, through medical records and evidence, how your health problem limits your capacity to serve patients, use tools, and handle your responsibilities with the precision the profession demands.

How to Qualify for Disability as an Optometrist

To qualify for long term disability benefits, you typically need to show that your illness or injury prevents you from performing the duties of your specific role. This may include tasks like evaluating vision, using diagnostic tools, managing medical records, and consulting with patients.

In addition to your doctor’s support, you’ll need medical records, test results, and policy documents. The cost of gathering this information may seem overwhelming, but it’s an investment in protecting your income, your peace of mind and your future financial stability.

Common Reasons for LTD Denials for Optometrists

Insurance companies frequently deny long term disability claims for reasons such as:

• Incomplete medical information
• Claims that your condition doesn’t meet the policy’s disability definition
• Disputes over whether you can perform an alternative occupation
• Missed deadlines or insufficient documentation

These denials are not final. With the right legal help, many professionals have successfully appealed and recovered the benefits they were originally owed. Don’t give up if you’ve been denied—reach out for guidance.

How Our Lawyers Can Help With Denied Optometrist Disability Claims

Our law firm has helped countless professionals—including optometrists—overcome disability insurance claim denials. We understand the nuances of long term disability insurance, and we know how to build effective appeals tailored to your profession.

From reviewing your disability insurance policy to submitting additional evidence, requesting reports from your doctors, handling deadlines, and managing communication with the insurance company, we take the burden off your shoulders.

You’ve spent your career helping others protect their vision and well-being. Now, let us help protect your financial future. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your next steps.