GSI Disability Insurance for SUNY Upstate
Residents and fellows at SUNY Upstate Medical University are eligible for a Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) disability insurance program.
This program lets eligible trainees secure individual disability insurance without undergoing medical exams or answering health questions. See the eligibility requirements below for details.
What is GSI Disability Insurance?
Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) is an individual disability insurance policy that will protect your income throughout your career. This is coverage that will stay with you after training and even if you move to a different state.
GSI policies are exclusive and only available to eligible residents and fellows at certain institutions, such as Upstate Medical University. The advantage of a GSI policy is that you will qualify for full benefits regardless of your health history.
Do You Qualify?
The GSI disability insurance for SUNY Upstate is only available to medical residents & fellows who have not been declined or given a modified offer from an insurance company, other than Guardian. If you apply for individual disability insurance through any other company, such as MassMutual, Principal, Ameritas or Standard, it may affect your eligibility for this GSI.
Therefore, it's crucial to learn about this GSI offer before you apply for any individual disability insurance.
What Does the GSI Policy Include?
The GSI disability insurance for SUNY Upstate includes similar features found in Guardian's fully underwritten individual disability policies, including:
- Specialty-specific disability definitions, also known as "True Own Occupation"
- Guaranteed future increase options, allowing benefit increases as income grows (up to $15,000/month)
- Guaranteed renewable and non-cancelable coverage, meaning the insurance company cannot change or cancel the policy as long as premiums are paid
- Portable coverage that stays with you regardless of employer or location
Why GSI Disability Insurance is Important
No one plans for a disabling illness or injury, but they can happen at any time — and they can put your earning potential at risk. Employer-provided benefits, like group long-term disability (LTD), often don’t offer enough protection, flexibility, or strong definitions. Traditional individual policies provide the best coverage for physicians, but approval depends on your unique medical history.
GSI disability insurance for SUNY Upstate bridges this gap. This individual, portable policy is available only during your residency or fellowship, but it stays with you throughout your career, protecting your future Attending income. Best of all, it requires no medical review, so you can qualify for comprehensive coverage regardless of any pre-existing conditions.