When attempting to prove your disability for a Social Security Disability claim, the two most important professionals to have in your corner are your physician and a qualified Social Security Disability lawyer or representative. Your doctor’s reports are going to be looked at very closely when determining your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. A lawyer can help ensure that the right information is in your file where it needs to be for your claim to be accepted.
The Social Security Disability application process is rather long and there is no guarantee that a claim will be approved. Of the claims which are eventually accepted, most go through several steps in the appeals process. It is in your best interest to have legal representation during this hearing.
You and your representative may present medical evidence of your disability from your doctor and from a number of other sources. These include chiropractic care, physical therapy, and psychiatric or psychological professionals, to name a few. The medical sources which will be accepted depend on the nature of your disability.
In most cases, your primary care physician reports will be the most valuable medical evidence in your Social Security Disability claim. If you have been referred to a specialist, his or her reports will also weigh heavily in the ruling made on your Social Security Disability claim.
Often, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will consider the opinions of an independent medical expert. Contrary to popular notion, these medical experts do not exist simply to rubber stamp all Social Security Disability claims “denied.” A medical expert is simply called in to give an expert opinion regarding the evidence presented from a physician’s standpoint. The medical expert, who will likely be at your disability hearing, may also ask questions for further clarity regarding your condition.
It is important that you make absolutely sure that your medical files are kept completely up to date. Make sure your doctor knows that you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits.
When applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you will need to include all medical treatments you have undergone, as well as a complete listing of medications you are taking. You will also need a complete record of all hospital visits and any treatment you have received.
It is important to note that your doctor’s claim that you are disabled does not guarantee that you will be able to receive Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA has a narrow definition of disability, which can differ from that of your physicians’. This is one of the reasons why it can be beneficial to have your attorney working closely with your doctor.
