This discussion covers a long-term disability case involving a registered nurse whose claim with Lincoln Financial was initially approved but later denied at the 24-month mark, when the policy definition changed from “own occupation” to “any occupation.” The nurse suffered from lumbar spine issues and knee problems that made the physically demanding duties of hospital nursing—lifting patients, standing, and constant movement—impossible. While Lincoln paid benefits during the “own occupation” period, they later argued she could perform sedentary nursing-related roles (like triage or chart review) based on a paper medical and vocational review, without fully accounting for her pain, functional limits, or medication side effects.
On appeal, we built a much stronger evidentiary record. We obtained an in-depth functional capacity evaluation, supportive reports from treating providers, and expert vocational input showing she could not reliably perform even sedentary work. The appeal emphasized that disability isn’t just about the ability to sit—it also involves concentration, cognitive stamina, and consistent performance, all of which were impaired by chronic pain and medication. With this comprehensive approach, Lincoln overturned the denial and reinstated benefits, though the claimant must continue providing ongoing proof. The case highlights how insurers often target claims at the “any occupation” transition and why detailed medical, functional, and vocational evidence is critical.