Attending Physician’s Statement Ontario: Definition and facts

An Attending Physician’s Statement (APS) is a detailed medical report completed by a treating physician to provide crucial information about a patient’s diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

This document is essential for supporting short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (STD) insurance claims in Ontario, ensuring that insurance companies have accurate and comprehensive medical evidence to evaluate the validity of the claim.

Understanding the APS

The APS is designed to give a comprehensive overview of your medical situation. It includes information such as:

• Diagnosis: The specific medical condition(s) you are suffering from.
• Medical History: Details about your medical background, including previous treatments and surgeries.
• Symptoms: A description of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
• Treatment Plan: Information about ongoing and future treatments.
• Prognosis: The expected outcome of your condition and your ability to return to work.

WATCH: Disability lawyer James Fireman talks about 5 common LTD terms and how they can impact your disability claim on an episode of the Disability Law Show.

Importance of the APS for disability claims

The APS is a critical part of the disability claims process for both STD and LTD insurance. Here’s how it applies to each:

Short-term disability (STD)

STD benefits are designed to provide financial assistance for a limited period, typically up to six months, if you are unable to work due to a medical condition. The APS helps insurers understand the severity and nature of your condition, which is crucial for the approval of your STD claim. The document should demonstrate that your condition prevents you from performing your job duties, even for a short duration.

Long-term disability (LTD)

LTD benefits in Ontario come into play when your disability extends beyond the STD coverage period. They provide financial support for a more extended period, often until you can return to work or reach retirement age. The APS for an LTD claim needs to be more detailed and robust, reflecting the long-term nature of your disability. Insurers will scrutinize the APS to assess the legitimacy of your claim and the likelihood of your condition improving over time.

How to ensure a strong APS

To enhance the chances of your disability claim being approved, ensure that your APS is thorough and accurate:

1. Communicate with Your Physician: Make sure your doctor understands the importance of the APS and provides comprehensive information.
2. Be Honest and Detailed: Ensure all relevant details about your condition are included. Missing or vague information can lead to delays or denials.
3. Follow Up: After your physician submits the APS, follow up with your insurer to ensure they have received and reviewed it.

An Attending Physician’s Statement is a vital document for anyone seeking STD or LTD benefits in Ontario. It plays a significant role in validating your claim by providing detailed medical evidence of your condition. By ensuring that your APS is complete and accurate, you can improve the likelihood of receiving the disability benefits you need.

How Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help

If you have questions specifically about your short-term disability or long-term disability claim, or your request for benefits is denied, contact the experienced team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP immediately at 1-855-821-5900 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Our firm has helped many people, like Sandra Bullock, Julie Austin, and Florence Steele, resolve their LTD and insurance disability disputes. We will review the facts of your situation, tell you if you have a case, and advocate on your behalf.

Get the advice you need, the compensation you deserve.