Absence Advisor
Infographics
How does returning to work impact disability benefits?
Reentering the workforce after a disability-related absence can be an overwhelming journey. Before returning to work, the employee should understand how any disability benefits they may be collecting, including both SSDI and LTD, will be impacted by their reentry into the workforce.
Behavioral Health & SSDI
The COVID-19 pandemic has dominated the disability industry landscape over the last two and a half years. Within that context, behavioral health conditions have become increasingly prevalent for those seeking financial assistance afforded to them through short- or long-term disability and/or the SSDI program. Despite the increasing numbers of behavioral health claims, they remain among the most complex to manage and adjudicate.
Critical factors in an external physician review
External physician reviews offer disability providers an additional resource to more effectively manage their claims. Upon review of the medical evidence, a medical professional will produce a report of medically supported functional restrictions and limitations. Several factors can help make an external physician review successful, and we have highlighted some of the most critical ones here.
Assessment of Residual Functional Capacity
An accurate assessment of residual functional capacity can be vital to the success of an SSDI or SSI application. An RFC assessment can provide valuable clinical and vocational perspectives of a claimant’s limitations and restrictions, as well as information about the impact of any impairments on daily life and the ability to work. The purpose of this infographic is to provide an overview of residual functional capacity and discuss how an assessment impacts a disability application decision.
How does a paid absence plan interact with LTD benefits?
Over the past several years, state-wide paid absence plans have become more common as additional states move to implement a plan that best fits their residents. No longer relying on employers to support workers during a period of illness or injury, local governments have implemented plans that provide financial support to those who may be unable to work for varying durations of time. This infographic explores paid absence plans and discusses how they may interact with LTD benefits.
The impact of the pandemic on SSA’s workflow
SSA made significant changes to its workflow to ensure the safety of its employees, as well as the vulnerable populations they serve, during the pandemic. To ensure that millions of Americans who receive monthly benefits could continue to do so without interruption, and to provide services to millions of others seeking assistance, SSA implemented policies and procedures including the suspension of in-office appointments and the utilization of remote technologies.
A look back at our first year as Brown & Brown Absence Services Group
In February of 2021, we launched our new brand, Brown & Brown Absence Services Group, to the marketplace. In our first year, we have successfully launched six signature solutions, established dozens of resources to support our customers, helped secure thousands of SSDI awards for disabled individuals, and recovered over $100M for our customers. Here is a look back at our first 11 months as Brown & Brown Absence Services Group.
A look into common complexities in disability claim management
Managing disability claims is far from a “one size fits all” process. While every claim involves evaluating the unique circumstances of an individual’s documented work history, health status, and medical prognosis, claim evaluators must often look deeper to provide fair and thorough assessments. Knowing what to look for and how to obtain supporting evidence is essential.
Considerations for attorney and non-attorney representation
The SSDI process can be both daunting and complex. Unfortunately, for most claimants, an approval only comes after several rounds of appeal. For these claimants, it is important they feel supported throughout the process. Working with an attorney or a non-attorney representative not only increases likelihood of approval but provides claimants with additional support throughout the application process.
An inside look at physician file reviews
When compiling information for a LTD insurance claim, claims examiners must gather as much evidence as possible so that an accurate assessment of a claimant’s abilities and limitations can be made, and LTD benefits can be paid accordingly. If an LTD claims examiner is unable to make a clear determination about a claimant’s functional capacity, a physician file review may be requested to gain additional insight.
The impact of medical treatment on the SSDI application process
While SSDI claims can cite a wide variety of physical and psychological conditions, this infographic explores how comprehensive medical records are critical to the adjudication process of every claim.
Why we are now Brown & Brown Absence Services Group
Brown & Brown Absence Services Group was formed from a combination of dynamic organizations that offer insurance companies value-driven solutions. In this piece we outline who we are and what we bring to our customers and clients.
Reimbursement agreements explained
It’s important for anyone receiving LTD benefits to understand the impact that an approval for SSDI benefits could have on their financial future, as well as how these two types of benefits work together.
SSDI and return to work
This infographic explains Social Security’s Ticket to Work program and outlines the work incentives designed to help prepare SSDI beneficiaries to return to the workforce.
Training Videos
An inside look at client communications & our Client Success Center
Get an inside look at the many ways in which claimants can keep in touch with Brown & Brown Absence Services Group throughout the disability claim process. In this video, we will show you samples of our automated communications, as well as the multitude of self-serve features available in our client portal.
How to help claimants prepare for an SSDI hearing
An SSDI hearing can be a daunting experience for any claimant. We have created this video to serve as an inside look at the hearing experience and help your claimants to better prepare for their hearing.
An inside look at a claimant’s introduction to Brown & Brown
Have you ever wondered what your claimants experience when you refer them to Brown & Brown Absence Services Group for assistance with a Social Security Disability claim? We’ve created this video to give you a closer look at the first steps in a claimant’s journey with Brown & Brown.
What are the benefits of filing for SSDI?
In this video we will talk about the benefits of filing for SSDI to help address any questions or concerns that may arise when referring a claimant to Brown & Brown Absence Services Group.
SSDI Carrier Portal tutorial
In this tutorial we show you how to navigate the SSDI Carrier Portal in order to submit SSDI referrals, access information on your claims, and submit overpayment calculations.
About Brown & Brown Absence Services Group
We are happy to partner with your organization to offer a suite of services designed to help you achieve your goals and help your claimants obtain the benefits they need.
A message from Mike Shunney
Our CEO, Mike Shunney, shares the exciting news that The Advocator Group, Social Security Advocates for the Disabled, and Professional Disability Associates will come together as Brown & Brown Absence Services Group in 2021.