Why Do I Need a Consultative Examination when Applying for Disability Benefits?

Social Security disability claimants often assume that they simply need to supply the Social Security Administration with their medical records to move their cases forward. It’s often not as simple as that. The SSA often requests claimants to submit to consultative examinations. An Ocala Social Security disability benefits attorney can help you prepare for one to keep your case moving along.

What Is a Consultative Examination?

A consultative examination is a mental or physical examination that’s used to obtain medical evidence to help prove or disprove whether a claimant qualifies for Social Security disability benefits. If you’re still at the pre-hearing phase, it may be set up by the examiner who’s in charge of your claim for the state. At the hearing level, the administrative law judge who’s handling your case can request one, and the state agency will take it from there. It’s highly beneficial to have a qualified Ocala Social Security disability lawyer by your side in either case.

When Are Consultative Examinations Necessary?

A consultative examination may be requested if there isn’t enough evidence for the SSA to make an accurate determination. This may happen for a number of reasons, including:

• Medical records that are outdated, too vague or difficult to read;
• There are no pertinent medical records because you haven’t been treated for the condition that is causing your disability;
• Your doctor has failed to send your medical records as requested;
• Your medical records contain conflicting information;
• The doctor who has been treating you isn’t a specialist in the relevant area of medicine; and
• Your doctor has not been apprised of your current symptoms or how they limit you.

Be Prepared With an Ocala Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney

It’s natural to be confused when asked to submit to a consultative examination. By retaining a competent Ocala Social Security disability lawyer, the process is more likely to unfold without any problems. If you’ve been asked to submit to a consultative examination and need an Ocala Social Security disability benefits attorney, contact CJ Henry Law Firm, PLLC right away at 352.304.5300.