Hello katiek,
It is difficult dealing with some insurance companies. However persistence is the key and documentation. When your specialist reviewed you, have they sent a written report to your GP? If so you can request a copy and send on to the insurance company as confirmation of your situation. Any report or correspondence sent to your GP can be used, it sometimes requires permission from the writer, as confidentiality is from them to your GP, but it is possible and I have obtained reports many times from our GP. I am not sure why your insurance company is being obstructive, maybe it is their "tactic" as you say, or maybe they are wanting written "proof" - I am not saying it to you, but insurance companies are a strange breed sometimes. You will have to comply with their requests as this is their "assessment method" on your condition. However if your specialist feels application for total disablement is warranted, then request the forms - they are lengthy and you can get discouaged by the sheer volume of information required, but as your case is genuine, stay with it and continue. You have the truth of the matter on your side. It can be emotionally draining dealing with these companies. Also If you can ask for written confirmation from the various specialists / doctors you have seen then do so. My wife is on income protection and has received total permanent disability. It is a process, but stay with it. We used our GP for the forms and they don't like it, but it is their duty to support you and offer this assistance as well. Although I do not understand why the insurance company is questionig your income support - I can only assume (apart from them trying to make it hard) perhaps they feel that they don't have enough information?

Be strong, and as best you can try not to let the emotional stress of this take over, don't see it as 'personal' and quietly and with self belief, gently maintain your strength of purpose without letting this outside influence drain you. I understand how it can and if you can have support around you that keeps your energy positive.

My very best to you, ianacoustic.