Canada Life Attending Physician Statement: What You Need to Know

If you’re applying for long-term disability (LTD) benefits, the Canada Life Attending Physician Statement (APS) could make or break your claim.

This form — completed by your doctor — plays a critical role in whether your benefits are approved, delayed, or denied.

Unfortunately, many claims run into trouble because the APS is incomplete, unclear, or doesn’t fully explain how your condition affects your ability to work.

What Is a Canada Life Attending Physician Statement?

The Attending Physician Statement is a medical form that:

• Is completed by your treating doctor
• Describes your diagnosis and symptoms
• Outlines your physical or cognitive limitations
• Explains whether you can work — and in what capacity

Canada Life relies heavily on this form to decide:

• Whether your claim is approved
• Whether your benefits continue
• Whether your claim should be denied or cut off

Why This Form Matters More Than You Think

Key takeaway: The APS is often the most important document in your disability claim.

Even if your doctor supports your claim, problems can arise if the form:

• Is too vague
• Lacks detail about your limitations
• Doesn’t clearly explain why you can’t work

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Claim

Many LTD claims run into issues because of simple but critical mistakes on the APS.

Watch for These Problems:

• Vague language (e.g. “patient unable to work” with no explanation)
• Missing functional limitations (e.g. inability to sit, focus, lift, or interact)
• Inconsistencies between your form and your application
• Rushed or incomplete answers from your doctor

Can Canada Life Deny Your Claim Based on This Form?

Yes — and it happens often.

Canada Life may deny or delay your claim if:

• The APS doesn’t clearly support “total disability”
• Your limitations don’t align with your job duties
• The medical information is unclear or incomplete

What You Should Do Before Your Doctor Completes the Form

You don’t have to leave everything up to your doctor. Taking a few simple steps can make a big difference.

Before the Form Is Submitted:

• Explain your job duties clearly (physical + mental demands)
• Discuss your limitations in detail
• Make sure your symptoms are accurately described
• Review the form, if possible, for completeness

What If Your Claim Is Delayed or Denied?

If Canada Life relies on your Attending Physician Statement to deny or delay your claim, you still have options.

• You may be able to challenge the decision
• Additional medical information can strengthen your case
• Legal help can prevent costly mistakes early on

Before taking your next step, it’s important to understand your rights when your long-term disability claim is denied.

Speak to a Disability Lawyer Before It’s Too Late

Issues with your Attending Physician Statement can have a serious impact on your claim — but they can often be fixed.

If you’re dealing with delays, questions from Canada Life, or a denial, getting advice early from a disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can make all the difference.