When a person in Kissimmee believes he or she has an illness or condition that qualifies them for Social Security disability benefits, that does not necessarily mean they will be automatically approved. Being approved or denied Social Security disability hinges on many factors. An important part of the process is the medical examination. In some instances, it is necessary for a claimant to have a special examination. This could be the key to receiving an approval for SSD benefits.
When a person files for benefits, the state’s Disability Determination Services will review it and then make the decision for the Social Security Administration (SSA). Prior to making a decision as to whether to approve or deny the claim, they might require more information. The SSA will pay for a special examination or a medical test as well as any travel expenses to get to the test location. If the test or examination is conducted by a doctor other than the claimant’s regular doctor, the tests can be sent to the regular doctor.
Claimants who are asked to take this special examination must do so if they want to be approved for SSD benefits. If the applicant cannot keep the appointment, the person must notify the agency for the state.In the event the applicant misses the exam without explanation, the agency will make a decision based on the information it has. However, because the need for the special examination was already expressed, the likelihood is that the agency will deny the claim without it.
At the special examination, the doctor will not make a determination as to whether or not the claimant is disabled. Nor will there be a prescription for medication or treatment. The report will simply be sent to the agency. They will review the report and the other information and make a decision. If the application is denied, there is the opportunity for a claimant to file an appeal.
The medical requirements are imperative when trying to get SSD benefits. If it is needed, understanding how a special examination factors in is important, and it is wise to have help from an experienced lawyer.
Source: SSA.gov, “A Special Examination Is Needed For Your Disability Claim,” accessed on Sept. 5, 2015
