How are health professionals important when I seek SSD benefits?

On Behalf of | May 1, 2015 | Social Security Disability

Social Security disability claimants in Kissimmee can be easily confused by the vast array of federal regulations and medical requirements that must be met to be approved for Social Security disability benefits. It can be an arduous task to get a grasp on all the various necessary pieces of information that must be provided. One key to a case is often the medical information in the case. Knowing what the health professionals do and how they’re viewed can help make the situation easier to understand.

Health professionals are important to a Social Security disability case. They are the sources who state what the treatment options will be based on the medical evidence. Consultative examinations are sources that are paid a fee and conduct tests and examinations if they’re required. Consultants who specialize in psychological or medical issues will examine a claim when requested to do so by State Disability Determination Services (DDS). Medical experts will provide testimony before the administrative law judge at a hearing or they will give a response to written questions from the ALJ.

Treating sources are the medical professionals who the claimant has selected for treatment. They provide evaluation as to what has happened and how the issues are affecting the claimant. Since these treating sources know the claimant better than other medical professionals, they can provide the most useful evidence for the case. The Social Security Administration will generally prefer to use a treating source that is familiar with the claimant to get an accurate assessment. It is not up to the treating source to decide whether or not the claimant should be approved for SSD benefits. They simply provide evenhanded and professional information based on the facts.

When seeking Social Security disability, there are numerous factors that come into focus. Those who might feel overwhelmed by everything that is upon them should try and become familiar with how the entire process works. This can help assuage fears and help to deal with all the small issues that often arise during a Social Security disability case.

Source: ssa.gov, “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security – The Role of the Health Professional; Treating Sources,” Accessed April 28, 2015

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