This video discusses Unum’s frequent practice of denying disability insurance claims based solely on “paper reviews,” where in-house or hired doctors review medical records without ever examining or speaking to the claimant. Long term disability attorneys Greg Dell and Alexander Palamara explain that while this practice is often legally permitted under ERISA, it is fundamentally unfair—especially for claims involving mental health or cognitive impairments, which cannot be reliably assessed without in-person evaluation. Unum rarely orders independent medical examinations (IMEs), likely to save costs and avoid confronting evidence that could support a claimant’s disability.
The attorneys highlight a recent case where Unum denied disability insurance benefits despite overwhelming evidence from treating doctors, independent medical exams, neuropsychological testing, and vocational experts—all supporting disability. Unum instead relied on paper-only reviews from doctors who never examined the claimant and reached completely opposite conclusions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building a strong appeal record, requesting IMEs, and aggressively challenging paper reviews, particularly in subjective or cognitive disability cases. The attorneys conclude that while Unum continues this practice, litigation may be necessary to hold them accountable and protect claimants’ rights.