Not all disability insurance is created equal. Here are some of the most common issues we uncover when reviewing policies for physicians and dentists:

1️⃣ Weak Definition of Disability

• Policies that don’t define your specialty or allow for partial disability.
• “Any Occupation” language instead of “True Own-Occupation” protection.
• Policies that force you to be completely unable to work in any job to qualify for benefits.
  

2️⃣ Insufficient Monthly Benefit

• Coverage that doesn't fully replace your income or lifestyle needs.
• Benefits capped too low during training, with no built-in increase options.

3️⃣ Taxable Benefits

• Group or employer-provided policies where benefits are taxed, reducing your take-home replacement.
  

4️⃣ Limited Benefit Period

• Policies that only pay for 2-5 years vs. coverage through your full working years.
  

5️⃣ No Future Increase Options or Benefit Updates

• Policies that don’t allow for future increases as your income grows, forcing you to re-qualify medically later.
  

6️⃣ Non-Portable Coverage

• Group policies that terminate or change if you switch employers, relocate, or enter private practice.
  

7️⃣ Lack of Riders

• Missing critical features like:
  • Residual (partial disability) benefits
  • Cost of living adjustments (COLA)
  • Catastrophic disability riders
    

✅ Good disability insurance should fit your career, grow with you, and protect your income even if you can’t practice in your specific specialty.