For a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim to prevail, the claimant must submit medical records that demonstrates
(a) the claimant has a disability and
(b) the disability’s severity precludes the claimant from work.
Because SSDI is permanent disability, approval hinges on how the severity of the disability affects the claimant’s ability to work in any occupation during his or her working life. Lack of sufficient medical evidence is one of the top reasons that the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies SSDI claims.
The SSA reviews records from treatment providers and hospitals. The SSA’s decisions emphasize records submitted by current treatment providers, as they have the most knowledge of the claimant’s condition. The attending doctor can also submit a statement assessing the condition, which increases the chances of claim’s approval. To hold weight with the SSA, the records must come from a licensed physician. The SSA does not accept medical evidence from chiropractors, psychologists, optometrists, podiatrists, and others that do not qualify as licensed physicians.
Medical evidence should consist of the following sources, as they relate to the claim:
- Medical history
- Diagnosis
- Clinical exam results
- Laboratory findings
- Current diagnosis of disability
- Prescribed treatment
- Response to treatment
- Prognosis
- Physicians statement regarding physical and mental abilities
Some claims require test results. For example, claims for heart disease require a stress test and ECG results.
Evidence of limitations also assists claims. Medical evidence demonstrating pain, fatigue, and problems with specific activities, such as walking, sitting, or standing, show how the condition precludes work.
To get started on an SSDI claim, contact a Louisiana Social Security disability lawyer right away. The process can be time consuming. Medical records must be collected and submitted and a hearing held, which can take many months, so the sooner you begin, the faster you can get the help you need.
Our Social Security disability attorney in Opelousas, LA helps to collect and submit important medical records. To be successful, the correct medical evidence must be in place. An SSDI lawyer knows what evidence is needed for a specific type of claim to prevail.
