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Many of those who suffer from fibromyalgia turn to insurance providers to help offset the cost of their doctor’s appointments, treatments, and the at times inability to work. Fibromyalgia is a disease that causes long-term disability and is recognised by the CDC, but when fibromyalgia patients come seeking disability insurance, many insurance agencies only show skepticism. In order to best increase your chances of receiving disability insurance from your insurance provider, be very specific and detailed in your descriptions and answers, and whatever you do, do NOT say:
“I have Fibro-fog”
The commonly used term “brain fog” or “fibro fog”, describing the confusion or lack of mental clarity many who have fibromyalgia experience, is not well-received by those who process insurance claims. It doesn’t help that even physicians will use the term, but when you are in the office of the insurance company instead describe the effect these unfocused moments. “I have difficulty finding my words” or “I forget important things” are better than the unspecific “brain fog”.
“It hurts all over”
Despite what it seems like, those with fibromyalgia do not hurt all over their body. There are 18 specific points which can hurt when pressure is applied if you have fibromyalgia. Telling an insurance agent that all of your body hurts will only make them more skeptical of your condition. Instead be as specific as possible. “It hurts behind my shoulder blades, upper arms, lower back, and/or etc.” will mean much more than speaking of your body in general.
“I have good days and bad days”
First off, downplaying your disability is rarely a good idea when applying for insurance, but especially so with this common phrase. Everyone, no matter the state of their health, will have some days where they feel better physically than others. This expression comes out in particular when an insurer challenges the insured by asking how they are able to participate in an activity when they are claiming disability. Rather than “I have good days and bad days”, saying “My doctor’s treatment plan advises staying as active as I can, but I have a hard time functioning afterwards”. It is also wise to keep a journal detailing your daily physical activities and how they make you feel.
“I sleep all the time”
The problem with this statement is when insurance surveillance comes around. Once you are observed not sleeping, it could put your disability claim in jeopardy. While many who have fibromyalgia experience fatigue, most treatment plans involve staying active, exercising, or physical therapy. Similar to “good days and bad days”, when describing your fatigue say something closer to “Following my treatment plan is exhausting and physical activity causes me great fatigue”, than simply “I sleep all the time”.
The key to making sure you receive the disability insurance you deserve is to be as specific as possible. Fibromyalgia affects everyone slightly differently meaning your experience is unique. Treat it as such. Avoid generalities, and remember that it is better to be overly descriptive of your symptoms than under.
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