Some Important Tips If You Are Filing For Social Security Disability or SSI Benefits
Sandy Hanebrink
wheeldogs[AT SIGN]charter.net

It is important to list all documented medical conditions when applying for SSDI/SSID.  A disability decision is made based on the whole person and the capacity to work.  Your age, education, past 15 years of work and transferable skills, diagnoses and the functional capacity to work are reviewed to determine if a person meets the “listings” and is eligible under SSA’s rules.  When an examiner reviews your file, he/she will review all medical documentation that has been provided before requesting additional documentation as identified on your application.  If you provide medical evidence that includes neurological exam reports, MRI reports, lumbar puncture reports, autoimmune work-up reports, psychological reports, doctors notes and therapy notes and it has been at least four months since your onset and you have not had significant recovery with the ability to return to work, especially if paralysis exists, you have a pretty good chance for a quick approval.  If they have to go looking for records, make requests and wait for them, it will take several months and you may be disadvantaged as incomplete or contradictory information may be sent to SSA. 

TM is difficult to diagnose by some doctors and many people do not understand TM at all which will confuse or give the examiner a reason to deny your case.  When you provide the right information at the time of your application and it is enough to make a decision, SSA/DDS will not request other information.  This will speed up the process and limits the submission of records that may cloud things up.  It is important to document physical problems, depression, pain and fatigue.  Emotional issues like depression should be documented by a psychiatrist or psychologist.  If this information is not available, then SSA will send you for a consultative exam, but this doctor may or may not understand TM and could hurt your chances for approval.  Also, include other diagnoses that you may have even if unrelated to your TM.  For example, if you have arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, hearing loss, back pain, depression, low vision, these and other conditions should be included.  Again, the whole person is considered and a combination of symptoms and/or diagnoses may be the reason for approval. 

You can learn more about the listings by going to www.socialsecurity.gov and reviewing and/or requesting the Blue Book.