Navigating the process of applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) can be complex, frustrating, and overwhelming. For many individuals suffering from long-term illness or injury, the prospect of obtaining financial support from the Social Security Administration (SSA) is essential. While the process involves multiple steps, one critical component is the role of health professionals in helping applicants prove they are eligible for disability benefits.
Health professionals not only provide necessary medical documentation but also support the applicant’s claim with detailed, objective evidence to establish their condition’s severity.
UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY
Before we dive into the specifics of how health professionals contribute to an SSD claim, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria for disability benefits. The SSA provides disability benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Also, the condition must meet the SSA’s strict criteria, which include:
- The condition must be severe: Severe, meaning it must significantly limit the applicant’s ability to perform basic work-related activities.
- The condition must meet SSA’s official “Blue Book” listing: This is a comprehensive list of medical conditions considered severe enough to qualify for disability benefits.
- Inability to perform past work: The applicant must be unable to perform their previous job due to the condition.
- Inability to perform other work: The SSA evaluates whether the applicant can adjust and perform any other kind of work, given their age, education, and transferable skills.
Given these rigorous requirements, applicants must provide substantial evidence to demonstrate that their medical condition meets these criteria. This is where health professionals play a crucial role.
KEY CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
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Providing Detailed Medical Records.
One of the most important pieces of evidence an applicant can submit is a complete set of medical records. These records are the foundation of a disability claim, providing a detailed history of the condition, treatments, and the applicant’s response to therapy or medication. This information helps the SSA understand the nature and extent of the condition and how it impacts the applicant’s ability to work.
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Writing a Detailed Medical Opinion (RFC Form).
In addition to medical records, health professionals often complete a vital document known as the Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form. This form is a detailed assessment of the applicant’s physical and mental capabilities, particularly their ability to perform tasks such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and interacting with others. The SSA uses the RFC form to evaluate whether an individual can perform their past job or any other type of work. A well-completed RFC form from a qualified health professional can carry significant weight in the determination process.
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Providing Expert Opinions on Disability and Impairment.
Health professionals — especially specialists like neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, or psychiatrists — can provide expert opinions that support the severity of the condition. For instance, if an applicant suffers from chronic pain, a pain specialist can detail the impact that this pain has on the person’s daily activities. Similarly, a psychiatrist might write about the mental health limitations posed by conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, further supporting the claim that the applicant cannot function in a work environment.
An expert’s detailed opinion can help the SSA better understand how a condition limits the person’s ability to work and engage in daily activities. Such evidence can be critical in cases where an applicant’s condition doesn’t fully meet the SSA’s disability criteria, but the impact on their functioning is still substantial.
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Supporting Appeals.
The SSD claims process is notoriously difficult, and many initial applications are denied. In such cases, health professionals may be called upon to provide additional documentation or expert opinions to help support an appeal. An applicant can request a reconsideration or a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ), and health professionals may be asked to testify or submit further evidence.
Having the support of a knowledgeable health professional during the appeal process can significantly increase the chances of success. A clear, well-supported medical opinion can help counter any doubts raised by the SSA or demonstrate that the applicant’s condition is disabling.
As you can see, reviewing just this small part of filing for disability can become a long, complex process. With over 60% of first-time applicants being denied, the assistance of an experienced, competent disability attorney can make all the difference in whether or not you are approved for benefits. The attorneys at Parmele Law Firm have a combined 135+ years of disability experience and have helped over 55,000 individuals receive the benefits they so justly deserve. Call us today at 866-889-2570 to schedule your no-cost consultation.
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