By Linda A. Tate

Published June 2001

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I am writing in response to your letter about UNUM/Provident Disability Company. I too have submitted a claim due to my condition with Sarcoidosis, depression, fibroymyalgia,etc. The amount of time it is taking to settle my claim and the descrepancies involved in gathering pertinent information is very frustrating. However, my problem is with CIGNA Insurance Co. I am experiencing almost the same thing you are with UNUM. I have been trying to get benefits since October 25, 2000. Each request has been denied even with the support of my physicians. My employer (an insurance company) has advised me to re-submit my claim based on a new disability. There is no new disability! It is the same and thus has once again been denied. Since I am no longer on a company approved leave, and disability denied I have been instructed to return to work by CIGNA. My company contends that they will abide by CIGNA's decision. This whole process has been a nightmare! I contacted my employer last week to find out my employment status and was told I had to wait to hear from CIGNA!!!

This isn't half of the experience. Just wanted to say I understand how disgusted you are with the whole process and lack of integrity these companies are displaying.