Filing For Your Social Security Disability? Don't Make These Doctor-Related Mistakes
According to the Disability Benefits Center, about 70 percent of Social Security Disability claims are initially denied, and this is a fact that most applicants know. However, when it comes down to just why claims are rejected, the lines can be a bit blurry. If you are in the process of filing for your Social Security Disability (SSD), it is important that you know doctor-related mistakes can be a huge factor in the decision making process for the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here is a brief look at a few of the biggest doctor- or medical care–related mistakes to avoid with your SSD claim to better your chances of being approved.
Mistake: Not including a full list of treating medical professionals with your initial claim.
Why? When you initially fill out your SSD claim forms, you will be asked information about your current and previous treating medical professionals. The more information you can include here in this section, the easier it will be for the SSA to obtain your medical records, which means the faster your claim can be processed. Make sure you include a comprehensive list of treating professionals you have visited for your condition, including:
- family care physicians
- pain management or rehabilitation doctors
- physical therapists
- chiropractors
- specialists, such as neurologists, orthopedists, and internal medicine doctors
Mistake: Not asking your primary care physician's advice about filing for SSD.
Why? Physicians are heavily involved in the determination of whether or not a person is physically unable to work. Therefore, they are often involved in SSD cases. Your primary physician can give you great insight into whether or not you have a fair chance at obtaining SSD because of your impairment, illness, or injury. Because of this, it is a good idea to discuss applying with your physician just to get advice. Not only that, but your physician will then know to expect future communication with the SSA regarding your condition.
Mistake: Skipping appointments with medical evaluation practitioners through the claim process.
Why? It is not at all uncommon for an administrative law judge with the SSA to determine they want a second opinion from an unaffiliated physician about your condition. These appointments can take months to set up. Therefore, it is crucial that you keep them because not going can add many more months of wait time to your claims process. Plus, your refusal to keep appointments can also make it seem that you are uncooperative or have something to hide.
Contact a firm like Duncan Disability Law SC for more information about what you can expect.
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