A former employee of Mid America Clinical Laboratories hired O’Ryan Law Firm after Lincoln National wrongfully terminated her short term disability benefits and then refused to pay any long term disability benefits. The client initially applied for short term disability benefits that were offered through her employee benefit plan, although the employee paid all of the premiums herself for the disability coverage. Lincoln National was the disability insurance company who accepted all of her premiums and agreed to pay her monthly disability benefits in the event she became unable to work due to a serious illness or injury.
The employee suffered from the severe symptoms of Lyme disease including muscle and joint pain, headaches, and disabling fatigue. The employee treated with one of the best Lyme disease specialists in Indiana, Dr. Kimberly Lentz, whose office is located in Zionsville. Dr. Lentz reported to Lincoln that the employee had the classic symptoms of Lyme disease and was unable to continue working because of the debilitating consequences of contracting Lyme disease. Lincoln paid her short term disability benefits for a month but then terminated the claim after they hired a record reviewing doctor to review the records. After the short term disability was terminated, the employee hired O’Ryan Law Firm to appeal the premature termination of her short term benefits and to assist her with applying for long term disability benefits.
Prior to her serious medical conditions, the employee worked as a medical technician with Mid America Clinical Laboratories for two years. Her job required her to analyze blood and body fluids, operate sophisticated laboratory equipment and computerized instruments, log data from medical tests, discuss lab findings with physicians, and supervise and train other medical lab technicians. An extensive amount of concentration and focus was necessary to perform the duties of her position and any mistakes could lead to serious consequences. Mid America is the largest clinical laboratory in Indiana. They complete over 4.5 million tests per year. Mid America is not only located in Indianapolis, but also has over 30 Patient Service Centers throughout central Indiana.