When you file an ERISA disability claim, insurers will demand a lot of evidence. Proving how a physical injury restricts you can be challenging enough. Establishing the effects of cognitive and psychological injuries can be even more difficult.
However much evidence you submit to back up your claim, insurers may demand you undergo neuropsychological testing. You might even choose to do so yourself if you have trouble getting your claim approved.
What does neuropsychological testing involve?
A neuropsychological evaluation measures how a brain injury affects your ability to do things such as:
- Communicate your ideas and understand those of others
- Process information
- Remember facts
- Reason and solve problems
- Problem-solving
- Perform motor skills
- Plan, prioritize and multitask
- Control your mood
Carrying out daily life and holding down a job requires you to perform most of these skills to a reasonable level. For instance, you would struggle to work as a personal assistant if you cannot communicate, plan and multitask. You would be unable to teach if you can no longer remember facts and are prone to mood swings.
Before you agree to a test, remember that people make money out of insurance. ERISA insurers want to reduce what they pay you. They are more likely to send you to a medical professional who helps them avoid payouts than one who consistently confirms the claims of injured people. Thus, you may want to choose an independent doctor to perform your neurological test.
Having assistance to find reliable medical professionals and challenge any you feel are biased in favor of the insurer will be crucial to getting the total ERISA benefits you need and are entitled to.