I am done with trying to work a stressful job and fight this illness. I have done it for over 3 years and I need some time to take care of my health issues.
I am getting ready to go on leave for a few months and rent an apt near my LLMD so I can get IV abx. My boss wants me to try and get short term disability instead of unpaid leave (which would be nice... since I'm going to be paying through the nose for a second rent and treatment).
Does anyone have any tips on securing short term disability? I know the numbers I have to call and that they will have to speak with my doctor and release medical info, but what types of questions do I need to be prepared to answer? Is this something that is hard to get for lyme patients?
I just don't want to go into this unprepared and answer the questions incorrectly and be denied benefits because of it.
Thanks so much, V
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- It's very nice that you have a boss who is in your corner. Very nice, indeed.
short term disability - from your own insurance company or from your work company?
If from the federal Social Security Administration, it's very complicated and you have to be unable to work for many months before you can even apply.
When, or as much as possible, don't use the word "lyme" - they care more concerned with what you can and can't do, verified by your doctors and my tests - and personnel reviews from your employment, etc.
You may be eligible for food stamps so check with your county family services division.
Resources for Disability, Insurance, Dealing with HMOs -
Posted by VB (Member # 16824) on :
Thank you Keebler. the link you provided says that the info no longer exists. Is there an updated link?
Yes, my boss is a wonderful woman. She is the mothering type... I am very blessed.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Oh, . . .sorry - i really have to lie down. hope others will search that out.
i'll check back later. -
Posted by VB (Member # 16824) on :
also, it is from my work (insurance company), not social security.
Posted by LA (Member # 26353) on :
My job has a form the doctor has to fill out and sign. It has to state what you are being treated for, what tests were done to confirm it, the duration of time expected to be off, if intermittent or for a solid block of time. Being that you are going on IV antibiotics, hopefully you should not have too much difficulty. We are entitled to 12 weeks of job protection under Family Leave. It is not nearly as difficult as SS disability.
Posted by Florence1 (Member # 22960) on :
same my original drs the neurologists had to complete a form.....then they requested drs office notes to continue the claim....
i used all my STD then went straight onto LTD....which gets reviewed periodically.....I haven't had any problems so far.....I have been off work since september........
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- It's too bad that link was deleted. I can't imagine why unless by mistake or computer melt-down. it had a great deal of excellent - and very detailed - information.
I'm just too tired to search for a possible twin here somewhere. I hope someone can find a template for you to follow.