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I am just over one year into my LTD with Sunlife, anxiety/burn-out. I have anxiety, depression known from before and the work environment caused me to lose executive function (working memory, brain-fog). I strugged with therapy/CBT and note/logging. With a second therapist, I resisting doing CBT again as the first attempt didn't work, I didn't know why at the time. It only came out in a psych assessment that I have/had ADHD which may explain these things. I couldn't schedule myself or take notes during any of this process. Sunlife ordered a Neuropsychological IME. How likely is it that this will cut my benefits off, given that I resisted prescribed treatment and may be accused of 'malingering'. My doctor and I have been waiting on a neurologist and psychologist referral for a couple of months, starting before the IME was ordered. I sent frantic calls/emails to my case manager with Sunlife, who said it was for my benefit and suggested it wouldn't lead to a benefit cut off. but when I asked for email stating the same, she sent wording that suggests otherwise.

Typically, the IME process is quite standard to those on LTD, and is something that many many people will go through. It does not mean necessarily mean that your benefits would be cut off, but they are clearly looking into your medical situation in more detail. Of note, typically there is an obligation to attend this. If you refuse, your insurer may be able to end your benefits for non-compliance.
I'd suggest reviewing this guide that we created on this topic to help you understand a bit more information about these assessments- https://stlawyers.ca/disability-law/faq/ime-long-term-disability/. If you have more questions, or run into any issues, please contact our disability specialist, Rebecca, at rebecca.permis@stlawyers.ca, and she will help.
The Disability Lawyers at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP
Direct Tel (Toll Free): 1-888-990-9646     Email: help@disabilityrights.ca     Web: www.stlawyers.ca
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