Dallas, TX — A Dallas neurologist says Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada forced her to fight in federal court before finally processing her short-term disability benefits correctly, despite documented treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Dr. Sharisse Stephenson, a triple board-certified neurologist, was placed on ADA-protected medical leave and enrolled in an Intensive Outpatient Program. She provided Sun Life with medical documentation, but says her benefits were delayed and denied until after she filed a federal lawsuit and sought help from her congressional office.

“Instead of supporting recovery, Sun Life put me through months of unnecessary stress while I was in active PTSD treatment,” Dr. Stephenson said. “Most people would have just given up, gone back to work too soon, and never gotten the full treatment they needed.”

Following pressure, Sun Life reversed course, issued back payments, and apologized for its handling of the claim.

Advocates say the case highlights a broader problem with disability insurance claims for mental health, where delays and denials often leave vulnerable people without needed support.
 

About Dr. Sharisse Stephenson

Dr. Stephenson is a triple board-certified neurologist specializing in brain injury and headache medicine. She provides care for veterans with traumatic brain injuries and has served as a Stroke and EEG Medical Director.
 

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