STDP – Wage Loss Benefits (Article 20)
If your Short-Term Disability Plan (STDP) wage loss benefits have been denied, follow these steps to ensure your appeal is handled effectively:
1. Schedule an Appointment
Contact your doctor as soon as possible to arrange an appointment. Timely medical input is essential for your appeal.
2. Notify Your Case Manager
Email your case manager within 7 days to inform them that you are appealing the decision.
Include the date of your upcoming doctor’s appointment.
Note: Canada Life / Telus Health may extend appeal deadlines based on your appointment date.
3. Authorize Union Representation
If required, sign and send the Authorization for Union Representation form.
Final appeals for STDP denials are handled by the CUPW Regional Office.
4. Bring Documentation
Take your denial letter to the medical appointment.
Ask your doctor to review and address each issue mentioned in the denial letter.
5. Request Detailed Medical Support
Ask your doctor for a comprehensive medical letter that:
Explains why you cannot perform your work duties.
Describes the connection between your illness/injury and your job.
Includes specific examples of your job tasks and why you are unable to perform them.
6. Keep in Touch
Maintain regular communication with your case manager by email.
Update them about upcoming appointments and when new medical information will be available.
Active participation strengthens your case!
7. Stay Informed on Your Rights
Review Articles 20.12 – 20.15 of the Collective Agreement to understand your rights and responsibilities during the appeal process.
Canada Life / Telus Health – Accommodations
1. For accommodation requests, the process is similar to wage loss benefits, with a few key differences:
2. Follow the same steps as above, excluding Step 3 (union representation through Regional Office does not apply to accommodations).
3. You are responsible for providing updated medical information to support your accommodation request.
4. Even if your case manager states that your file is closed, you may submit new medical information at any time to have your accommodation reconsidered.
WorkSafeBC Claim Denied
If you receive a partial or full denial of your WorkSafeBC claim:
You have 90 days from the date of the denial letter to file an appeal.
1. Contact the 2nd Vice-President, CUPW Vancouver Local 846, for guidance.
2. Sign the WorkSafe “Authorization to Represent” form to allow the Local to represent you during the appeal process.
3. Inform the Local if Canada Post provided any inaccurate or misleading information related to your claim.
4. Continue attending regular medical or treatment appointments. Inform your case manager of any new appointments—especially with specialists or surgeons—as these strengthen your case.
5. The Local will manage communications with the appropriate appeal boards and handle all required appeal documents on your behalf.
The appeal process—whether through Canada Life / Telus Health or WorkSafeBC—can be challenging and sometimes frustrating.
However, these programs are important benefits that protect your rights and support your recovery. it’s worth the effort to secure the benefits you deserve.
Raylene Marshall,
2nd Vice President