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Appeals Court Considers When an Insured Is 'Totally Disabled' and Which State Law Applies

Justices of the Massachusetts Appeals Court · February 12, 2026
AI-Generated Content: All content on this page was generated by AI to highlight key points from the meeting. For complete details and context, we recommend watching the full video. so we can fix them.

Summary

Panel heard conflicting views on whether a doctor who reduced hospital work but maintained an office practice is 'totally disabled' under his policy and whether New York or Massachusetts law governs Chapter 93A claims; parties disputed proof‑of‑loss timing and monthly indemnity provisions.

May it please the court. Rita Gontumis, arguing for appellant Dr. Richard Constantino, told the Appeals Court that the trial court improperly resolved a factual dispute on summary judgment by treating the insured’s occupation (hospitalist versus broader physician practice) and his proof‑of‑loss as legal questions for the judge rather than factual issues for a jury.

Gontumis said the policy requires an inquiry into the insured’s "important duties"…

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