Consultative Exam For SSDI: What to Expect
A consultative exam is a medical examination that is requested by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help determine if an individual qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The exam is conducted by a doctor who is chosen by the SSA and paid for by the agency. The results of the exam are used, along with other evidence, to decide whether or not the individual qualifies for benefits.
The SSA will usually order a consultative exam when there is not enough medical evidence in the individual’s records to decide disability benefits. For example, if an individual has been seen by a doctor but the records do not provide enough information about the nature and extent of the person’s disabling condition, the SSA may order a consultative exam.
Consultative exams are also sometimes ordered when an individual has not been seen by a doctor recently and the SSA needs updated information about the person’s medical condition.
There are a few different groups of people who need to be aware of consultative exams for SSDI:
- Social Security Administration (SSA) employees who process disability claims
- Doctors who perform consultative exams at the request of the SSA
- Social security disability lawyerswho represent claimants in SSDI hearings
- Hearing officers who preside over SSDI hearings
- Claimants themselves, or their family members/representatives if the claimant is unable to understand or participate in the exam process.
Each of these groups has a different role to play in consultative exams, and everyone must understand their respective responsibilities when it comes to Baltimore MD disability insurance.
What to expect in a consultative exam?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will send you a letter asking you to attend a consultative exam (CE). The letter will give the date, time, and place of the exam, as well as the name and address of the doctor who will conduct it. It is important to understand that you have a right to have a social security disability lawyer or another representative present at the CE.
When you receive the letter, you should call the number on the back to let them know whether or not you will be able to attend the exam. You must go to the CE, as your failure to do so may result in a denial of benefits.
At the CE, the doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and will perform a physical examination. The examination may include tests of your vision, hearing, and mental functioning. The doctor will also ask you questions about how your impairment affects your ability to work.
After the CE, the doctor will prepare a report that will be sent to the SSA. The report will be used, along with other evidence, to decide whether or not you are eligible for SSDI benefits.
You should receive a copy of the CE report, but if you do not, you may request one from the SSA. If you disagree with the doctor’s opinion; you have the right to have another examination by a different doctor.
It is important to understand that the CE is just one part of the process of determining whether or not you qualify for SSDI benefits. The decision will also be based on other evidence, such as your work history, age, education, and other medical records.
If you have any questions about the CE or the process of applying for SSDI benefits, you should speak to a social security disability attorney who specializes in Social Security disability law.
How an attorney can help
Social security disability attorneys who specialize in Social Security disability law can help you in several ways. First, the ss disability lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to show that you are disabled. A Baltimore ss disability lawyer can also help you fill out the paperwork and deal with the bureaucracy involved in applying for benefits. Finally, if your application is denied, the attorney can help you appeal the decision.
If you are disabled and unable to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The process of applying for these benefits can be complicated, and it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. Call the Law Offices of Terri D. Mason today to learn more about how we can help you get the benefits you deserve.