I've never done this sort of thing before. However, I feel it is necessary to share this with you folks. I sustained a back injury in my last job. A job I had done for 27 years. The spine surgeon says I will never return to that job. The company paid my short term disability. When it come time for Cigna to pick up the Long Term Disability they refused. After many times appealing the process they still say I can go to back to work despite letters from a noted spine surgeon confirming that I am disabled. Cigna has all my primary care physicians office notes as well as my spine surgeons notes. Cigna was also provided an MRI of my spine and X-rays with 2 Dr.s conclusions. Yet, they say I can return to work. I sure would like to know, doing what? All that to say this. If you are currently covered by Cigna, find something else, because it is not worth the paper it is written on. Any suggestions on how to get Cigna to honor their commitment?

Some insurance companys are just down right decietful. I hate that! I'd hire a good lawer.

Has a CIGNA doctor examined you to refute your surgeons opinion?

Has a CIGNA doctor examined you to refute your surgeons opinion?

No doctor or surgeon has examined me representing Cigna. I was told, however that a nurse practitioner looked at my case.

I would think you could ask for a physical examination. Ask also if there is a 2nd level appeal or such an appeal through the state insurance dept. It should all be listed on the denial letter.

http://www.mid.state.ms.us/consumer/midcmfm.pdf

try this

Be sure to get a copy of the exact policy under which you are covered for LTD. This will lay out the definition of disability, other policy provisions, and appeal rights. You can get an attorney - and good attorneys will review with you the policy, reason for denial, etc to determine if they can help you.

Often LTD policies will only cover you if you are unable to return to work to any reasonable occupation given your education and experience. They take into account your medical findings, occupation requirements, and limitations/restrictions. So if you have a light or sedentary occupation their determination may be that you have limitations but not such that you would be unable to do your occupation.

You may qualify for Social Security Disability. You must be out of work 5 full calendar months and then you can apply. However, their definition of disability is very very exact - you must be totally disabled to do any job. So if you were a nurse but can be a file clerk you would not be deemed disabled.