Symptoms Assessment Process for Disability

The symptoms assessment process for people applying for disability is not cut and dried. The Code of Federal Regulations sets out a number of conditions which are considered when processing a disability claim.

General Determination of Disability

When you file a claim for disability, your symptoms and pain are considered as part of the assessment process. That means any statements you make about how your condition affects you play a key role in determining whether you are eligible for benefits. Statements supporting your claim may include both medical and nonmedical sources.

However, anyone can make statements about symptoms and pain, so your claim must be supported by acceptable medical sources. The evidence provided by medical sources is used to determine whether your symptoms and pain are reasonably consistent with the impairment for which you are claiming benefits. All available evidence is considered including medical and nonmedical statements, medical history, expected symptoms and pain, and laboratory findings where applicable.

Symptoms Assessment

The symptoms assessment seeks to determine the level to which your symptoms and pain, resulting from impairment, would impact on daily activities and your ability to work. The presence of a medical impairment must be established in order to support your claim, regardless of any symptoms you have declared in statements.

State agencies will assign your case to an agency medical or psychological consultant, or other medical or psychological consultant designated by the Commissioner. The assigned individual will participate and help the hearing officer make a determination regarding whether your symptoms are reasonably expected to produce the symptoms and pain likely to result from medically determinable impairments. Disability hearings under §§ 404.914 through 404.918 of the code, and determinations which fully favor the claimant under § 404.1615(c)(3) of the code are an exception.

Evaluation of Disability

The code of Federal Regulations provides this information and more for the benefit of those seeking to apply for disability benefits. However, the language used may cause applicants to feel panicked or overwhelmed. The onus is on the applicant to ensure that he or she can provide the necessary evidence to support a disability benefit claim. That includes providing statements, contact details for medical providers, and any other evidence to support your claim that you are unable to work as a result of your impairment(s).

There are a number of conditions that you must meet or adhere to as part of the symptoms assessment and consideration for disability benefits. These include following any medical treatment or taking prescribed medications which may restore your ability to work. There are further considerations when disability is affected by substance or alcohol abuse.

You can find the full text of the code for disability and symptoms assessment here. If you need a disability attorney to help you with your paperwork or hearing, trust in the expert services of Kenton Koszdin Law Office. Our team is here to provide assistance to those struggling with the myriad of documents and details required to support disability benefit claims. Call our offices today for your free consultation.