Judge Requires UNUM Group to Compensate Doctor
A Massachusetts judge has ruled that UNUM Group and Paul Revere Life Insurance Company must pay Dr. Richard Constantino $150,000, asserting that the insurance company failed to follow the stipulations of its own policy.
This trial, combining both jury and bench proceedings, comes after a prolonged battle between the Rochester-based doctor and the insurance conglomerate. The conflict began when Dr. Constantino’s long-term disability insurance claim was initially denied by Paul Revere.
Following a unanimous jury verdict siding with Dr. Constantino, Hon. Michael D. Riccuiti, the Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Superior Court, made a significant ruling against Paul Revere. The order stated that the insurance company acted in bad faith, offering a critical perspective on its disability insurance practices. The case sets a notable precedent, indicating that out-of-state plaintiffs, including Dr. Constantino from New York, can pursue legal action against insurance firms located in Massachusetts under local laws for actions deemed as bad faith, such as misrepresentation or fraud.
Dr. Constantino is well-known in Rochester and has had a challenging health history since his colon cancer diagnosis in 1996. A former president of Rochester General Hospital, he has battled numerous health issues, including severe nerve damage, multiple foot issues, diabetes complications, and renal failure, among other ailments.
The long-term disability policy sold to him by Paul Revere should have provided necessary support; however, the insurance company's handling of his valid claims made the process arduous. Even after the initial approval, they claimed to have overpaid Dr. Constantino and insisted he owed them money, creating further obstacles while he struggled with his health.
The situation deteriorated as Dr. Constantino faced coverage cuts and outright rejections of his appeals for payments. This left him in a financially precarious position, as the delays forced him to seek loans and live in less-than-ideal circumstances while waiting for the insurance company to fulfill its obligations. Eventually, he opted for legal resolution, which took several years, leading the jury to decide on additional compensation for the back payments.
“Hundreds of patients in Rochester hold Dr. Constantino in high regard for his dedication to their medical care,” stated attorney Matthew Bourhis. “When he sought to file for a legitimate claim on a policy he had invested tens of thousands into, he was met with delays and denials from Paul Revere. The insurance giant attempted to defraud him after all the hard work he contributed—until he could no longer walk. Fortunately, the judge recognized these underhanded tactics and ruled in favor of my client, establishing a crucial legal framework to protect future disabled claimants.”
The case referenced is Richard Constantino v. UNUM Group and The Paul Revere Life Insurance Company, Suffolk Superior Court, Case No. 2084CV00944-BLS2.
About Bourhis Law Group
Bourhis Law Group focuses on representing clients involved in disputes concerning disability, homeowners, and business insurance, particularly in bad faith cases. Committed to achieving justice, the firm stands firmly in defense of policyholders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the lawsuit against UNUM Group?
Dr. Constantino filed the lawsuit after Paul Revere denied his long-term disability claim despite his valid health challenges.
What was the outcome of the court ruling?
The court ordered UNUM Group to pay Dr. Constantino $150,000 for failing to adhere to their policy terms.
How does this ruling affect future insurance claims?
This ruling establishes precedent allowing out-of-state claimants to sue Massachusetts-based insurance companies for bad faith under local laws.
What health issues has Dr. Constantino faced?
Dr. Constantino's health history includes colon cancer, severe nerve damage, and multiple surgeries, impacting his ability to work.
What services does Bourhis Law Group provide?
Bourhis Law Group specializes in representing clients in disability, homeowners, and business insurance cases, focusing on bad faith disputes.
