People in Kissimmee who are having issues that make it necessary for them to consider filing for Social Security disability benefits need to keep many things in mind if they want to be approved. Even if they meet the medical requirements to receive benefits, there is still the chance that they will be denied Social Security if they don’t follow the necessary procedures and provide acceptable evidence to the Social Security Administration proving why they meet the criteria to be approved. Having medical sources that are deemed acceptable is a key.
For the SSA to accept the assessment the medical testimony must come from an “acceptable medical source.” After the claimant’s impairment has crossed the threshold of being established as existing, the sources that are used will be paramount to receiving disability benefits.
For physical injuries, licensed physicians, specifically medical or osteopathic doctors, are acceptable.
For learning or intellectual disabilities, licensed or certified psychologists are acceptable. This will include psychologists employed at a school or other psychologists who are licensed or certified with functions that are deemed similar to a school psychologist and work in a school setting.
For visual problems, a licensed optometrist will be sufficient. This is true except in the case that the claimant is in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In that situation, the licensed optometrist will be used for measuring visual fields and visual acuity.
For foot problems, a licensed podiatrist can be used. The state in question is important in this instance as the podiatrist might be allowed to work on the foot or the foot and ankle as well.
Finally, for language and speech impairments, qualified speech pathologists are acceptable. The pathologist must be licensed by the licensing agency of the particular state or achieve other certifications that will justify the acceptance of the credentials.
When applying for Social Security disability benefits, the claimant needs to understand that there are rules that must be adhered to. This includes the credentials of the medical professionals justifying the claim. A legal professional who is experienced in Social Security disability can be of significant assistance.
Source: SSA.gov, “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security Part II – Evidentiary Requirements,” accessed on Dec. 29, 2014
