Proving that your injury is serious enough to qualify for disability benefits can be challenging. Most disability claims are initially denied. Timely medical evidence obtained from acceptable medical sources will increase your chances for approval. Also, this is possible if you work with a skilled disability claims attorney as you complete your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim application. When it comes to proving the seriousness of your injury or medical condition to the Social Security Administration (SSA), here’s what you should know:
Securing the Right Kind of Medical Evidence from Acceptable Sources
If you have been diagnosed with a disabling injury and you get a doctor’s note that confirms this, you may think you can easily prove your eligibility for disability benefits. Sure, a letter from your treating physician that links your disability to job-related impairments can support your disability claim. But extensive medical documentation is also important. The SSA will consider medical evidence such as physical examination and treatment notes, bloodwork panels, diagnostic testing results, imaging results, and mental health records.
However, this evidence should be from acceptable medical sources like licensed or certified medical experts such as doctors, psychologists, speech therapists, podiatrists, and others. Also, the agency will only accept documents and records from the hospital, professional clinic, or health facility where you have obtained treatment. The SSA does not review medical records or treatment notes from alternative medicine practitioners such as massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists.
What Matters for the SSA When Reviewing Medical Evidence
The SSA will want to see that the medical details you provided reflect your current condition. In general, this means that the records you submit must not be more than 6 months old. Also, the agency wants to know if the records give an accurate description of your disability. They want to see the tests you underwent to get your diagnosis, treatment plan, symptoms, prognosis, and limitations. If possible, the agency will review months’ worth of records from before your disability claim application.
What Can You Expect from Your Disability Lawyer
If you are suffering from a disabling medical condition, you do not want to navigate the complex legal system to get the benefits you need on your own. Errors and omissions in your SSDI application can result in costly delays and denials. Thankfully, you do not need to go it alone. A disability attorney can help you collect the necessary medical evidence to support your claim and ensure you complete the application correctly.
