GRETNA – A woman diagnosed with degenerative scoliosis claims her employer’s longterm disability insurer has failed to properly reimburse her for her malady.
Vickie Doss filed suit against Standard Insurance Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on Oct. 7.
Doss asserts that she was diagnosed with scoliosis in 2007 while working at Whitney Bank which had coverage by Standard Insurance Company as longterm disability insurer. The plaintiff claims that since the diagnosis her condition has steadily progressed to the point where her physician told her on Aug. 9, 2012 that should could no longer work. Doss alleges that she should have been eligible for disability payments from Standard Insurance Company after her doctor’s visit and that she did in fact notify them that she would be seeking benefits due to her condition. However, the plaintiff claims the defendant told her on July 17, 2013 they would begin an investigation that ultimately resulted in her condition being considered an “other limited condition” under the policy and not eligible for reimbursement after 12 months at which time they discontinued her long term disability benefits.
Doss contends that she appealed the decision maintaining that she met the criteria to continue receiving benefits, but was denied by Standard Insurance Company.
The defendant is accused of breach of contract, failing to negotiate in good faith and failing to tender what is due under the insurance policy.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for the full restoration of longterm disability benefits.
Doss is represented by Brad J. Gegenheimer of Gretna-based Grant & Barrow.
The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.
Case no. 743-130.