Orthopedic Surgeon Sues Unum for Denying Disability

Dr. Alan M. Gross was a successful California orthopedic surgeon since the mid-1980s, and he counted on Unum to provide disability insurance just in case he became unable to practice. After all, as a surgeon, his costs of living were relatively high and he wanted to ensure that he and his loved ones would be protected in a worst case scenario. Unfortunately, when the worst case did happen, he found out just how ill-equipped he really was.

In the mid-90s, Gross was diagnosed with diabetes when he began experiencing numbness in his hands and blurred vision – heartbreaking side effects for a surgeon. However, he thought the disease was under control and continued practicing. Two years after his diabetes diagnoses, he took off his gloves post-surgery and noticed it was filled with blood. He’d cut himself during surgery, but didn’t realize it because of the numbness. He knew he had to stop operating.

The Unum Nightmare Begins

Gross immediately stopped practicing in order to protect both his patients and himself, and he filed a disability claim with Unum. However, just one year later, the payments stopped coming in. Unum had decided that even though Gross couldn’t operate, he could do administrative tasks like filing or even consulting patients. Gross’ own doctor disagreed, citing a diagnosis of a rare disease that causes the bones in the feet to deteriorate. It was a side effect of diabetes, and why a higher number of diabetics have limb amputations.

With every step Gross takes, he’s putting himself at a higher risk of an amputation. Unum didn’t seem to care, pushing the surgeon to take on light medical tasks at the risk of his own limbs and life. One of the issues Unum has brought up is Gross’ financial status. However, Gross is adamant that he had coverage for a career he’s no longer able to do — anything else is a step down and he shouldn’t be forced to work a lesser-paying job (that’s harmful to his health).

The Unum Lawsuit

Gross filed a lawsuit against Unum, claiming the company didn’t pay what they had promised. His policy didn’t include anything about taking any job he could find. He was covered as a surgeon — a job he’s medically unable to perform because of a disease. Like many other Unum claim denial victims, Gross is tackling a legal battle during one of the most difficult times of his life. His colleagues have managed to keep the clinic open during the battle.

There are many Unum claim denial victims just like Gross, who have no disability income even after paying into a policy for many years. It’s not just unfair, it’s robbing Gross of precious time where he should be resting and managing his disease.

Did Unum Deny Your Legitimate Disability Claim?

Did you have Unum and were denied a claim? Did your Unum payments suddenly stop? If this happened to you, it’s possible that you have a Unum legal claim. There’s no reason to feel bullied any longer.

Discover more about your options at the Unum/UnumProvident Disability Insurance Claim Denial Class Action Lawsuit Investigation. You’ll be able to submit your story for no fee. If you have a case, an attorney will get in touch to further discuss your Unum claim review.