‘I don’t think that is a real valid denial’: Former MCFR firefighter sues county, seeking cancer benefits

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) - A former firefighter is suing Marion County, all while receiving cancer treatment.

Phillip Shinn retired from Marion County Fire Rescue in 2016 after more than 30 years of service.

In 2022, the former firefighter was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer covered by the Florida Cancer Presumption Bill.

The bill provides firefighters battling certain cancers benefits after they retire. Firefighters are more likely to develop cancer compared to the general population, according to Firefighter Cancer Support Network.

“We all sat down and did a little research and I’m right in the middle of eligibility as far as the cancer itself,” said Shinn.

Shinn says he submitted an application to Marion County, but was denied coverage because he is currently on another insurance policy, Medicare. He is suing the county, formally filing a complaint in January 2023.

According to the complaint, Shinn believes he is eligible because he chose to “continue coverage in the employer-sponsored health plan or group health insurance trust fund” when he retired.

“I don’t think that is a real valid denial,” said Shinn. “I refuse to allow whatever I’ve accumulated in my house, in my life, to be absolutely just consumed with a disease. I refuse.”

Joseph Romani, Vice President of the Professional Firefighters of Marion County, believes this case will set a precedent for firefighters denied coverage in the future.

“This case is going to bring clarity to the future because it’s going to affect every firefighter in the state,” said Romani. “It will provide security and comfort for people who are still sacrificing everyday. We have members who are fighting cancer while still riding on fire engines.”

Romani is standing alongside Shinn during this legal battle.

“We don’t think our members should be penalized by being required to stay on the county insurance and then having to pay higher premiums with Medicare for the rest of their life,” said Romani.

Shinn’s court date was scheduled for May 14, however, an order of recusal was filed last week. Shinn told TV20 his attorney received an email, stating the judge recused himself because his son is a firefighter.

At this time, no court date or judge is assigned to this case.

TV20 reached out to Marion County officials for comment, but say they can only provide legal documents since this is ongoing litigation.

Shinn’s loved ones are providing updates on their Facebook page, Phillip’s Journey.

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