What is the Social Security “Blue Book” and How Does It Apply to My Medical Evaluation?
A proper and sanctioned medical evaluation is critical to applying for Social Security Disability. This medical evaluation gives Social Security a detailed and clear understanding of your disability conditions and the vital information they need to make a qualified and accurate decision on your SSD claim.
According to the SSD rules, these provided physicians use the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security guidelines; this is usually referred to as the blue book and helps them to evaluate you for the type and extent of your disability.
This “Blue Book” includes a detailed listing of disabilities and impairments for adults and children. The book also sets exact requirements for the severity of your symptoms, specific clinical findings, and lab tests needed for each impairment; if found, some impairments may be considered for automatic approval of your SSD application.
Your private healthcare practitioner, working with your skilled and experienced Social Security disability lawyer, can provide you with significant help in determining if you meet the requirements listed in the Blue Book. They will know if you are missing vital information such as lab tests, etc., so you can proactively work to ensure complete documentation (and application), which helps you process your application faster and have a better chance of SSD approval.
Can My Private Doctor Put Me on Social Security Disability?
Even if your condition is not listed in the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security guidelines (Blue Book), you and your Social Security disability lawyer can work to prove that your disability affects your ability to work to a severe degree. Therefore, if you can’t do sustained work or your disability meets specific rules under the Medical-Vocational Guidelines, you may still be able to receive benefits.
Your doctor usually cannot approve you getting SSD benefits, but they will still play a significant and critical part in your application. They will be the first step in providing your medical information, treatment, and prognosis.
However, the Social Security Disability administrators may also ask for additional records, such as;
- More detailed and thorough medical information or specific medical records.
- Request specific forms or tests that may not have been initially included.
- Or (and this is quite common) request a complete medical examination done by their doctors.
It’s always possible that your disability does not meet the requirements for automatic approval under disability law; the claims examiner does have the option of your impairments being considered equivalent to a similar listing or considering a combination of impairments that are not severe enough individually but should be granted benefits when combined.
Applying correctly for SSD benefits is complex; your disability lawyer will significantly help with this process. You must note that many times, it’s highly challenging to prove that an impairment or impairments equal the Blue Book Listings. However, your SSD lawyer will thoroughly know the blue book and the information you need to make your Social Security disability evaluation work in your favor.
Are There Certain Medical Conditions That May Automatically Approve Me For SSD Benefits?
Social Security defines “disability” as that you are “disabled” if you can no longer do any substantial gainful activity due to your current medical or physical condition. Additionally, your present physical (or, at times, mental) impairment could result in your death or has lasted and is expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.
Your experienced Social Security Disability lawyer comprehends that the Social Security Administration’s listings of medical impairments that qualify for disability benefits can be complex and confusing, but also knows how to navigate this treacherous legal path.
You should note that there are types of disabilities that may automatically qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits. Some examples of these are:
- Musculoskeletal system conditions – Including Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, and more.
- Mental or mood disorders – Such as PTSD, Depression, Schizophrenia, and more.
- Cardiovascular conditions – These may include angina, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and more.
- Almost all types of Cancer.
- Nervous system disorders – Blindness, Parkinson’s disease, and more.
Your Social Security law team, experts and knowledgeable in these applications, will know what to look for and what documentation you need. If you automatically qualify, they will advise you. Please note, however, that the type of disability condition and situation is unique, and your law team will approach it legally in that spirit, providing you with the best chances of success.
What Is a Consultative Examination, and How Can It Affect My SSD Approval?
In more cases than not, when you’re applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you probably will have to attend a disability examination, usually called a consultative examination.
These exams are conducted by medical professionals hired by, or work for, the Social Security Administration (SSA). These medical professionals will assess and confirm your medical condition and help clearly define your physical or mental limitations.
This is a vital area that your experienced and skilled SSD attorney will help you prepare for and ensure you inadvertently don’t say or do anything that may jeopardize the chances of getting SSD benefits.
The consultative examination (CE) is a critical and vital part of the SSD application and evaluation process.
The primary reason for this exam is to provide substantial medical evidence to the Social Security Administration (SSA) so they can make an informed and correct decision on your case. Some of the most important reasons for this exam are;
- Confirm your disability and medical condition fully.
- Assess the severity of your condition and evaluate your functional limitations.
- Assess your mental health.
- Verify claims your medical team has made.
- Assist significantly in the approval process.
- Addressing other specific questions, if needed, and more.
I Must Take a Medical Exam For My SSD Application; How Should I Proceed?
Every day in the U.S., injuries and illness stop hard-working Americans from earning a living. When this occurs in your life, Social Security Disability benefits become vitally important to you and your family.
Consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable San Diego Social Security disability law firm will help to ensure you file correctly and comprehensively the first time. Your Social Security Disability lawyer will always give you the best legal advice on applying, especially what to expect if you must take a physical exam to get approved for your SSD benefits.
The best advice is: Do not try this alone. The San Diego-based Roeschke Law, LLC has a long and winning history of representing SSD clients get the benefits they need and deserve.
Call them today at (800) 975-1866 for a consultation on your case and the informed, knowledgeable, and empathetic representation you and your family deserve.