The Importance of Maintaining Regular Medical Treatment While Applying for Social Security Disability
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be a complex and lengthy process. One of the most critical factors in securing approval for benefits is having strong medical evidence to support your claim. For applicants in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana, working with the American Disability Action Group is essential.
Why Regular Medical Treatment is Crucial
When you apply for Social Security Disability, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires proof that you have a medically determinable impairment that significantly limits your ability to work. This proof comes in the form of medical records, which should detail your diagnosis, treatment, and the progression of your condition over time.
For applicants in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana, maintaining regular medical appointments is important for several reasons:
- Establishing a Clear Medical History
SSA examiners rely heavily on medical records to evaluate your claim. By consistently attending doctor’s appointments, undergoing tests, and following treatment plans, you create a clear and ongoing record of your condition. This documentation provides the SSA with the information it needs to assess the severity of your disability and its impact on your ability to work. - Demonstrating the Severity of Your Condition
Regular medical treatment helps to demonstrate that your condition is serious and ongoing. If there are large gaps in your treatment history, the SSA may question whether your condition is truly disabling. For instance, if an applicant in Oklahoma or Texas stops seeking treatment for long periods, the SSA may assume that the condition has improved, leading to a potential denial. - Complying with Recommended Treatments
The SSA expects applicants to follow their doctors’ recommended treatments. This shows that you are doing everything in your power to improve your condition. If you fail to follow prescribed treatments without a valid reason, the SSA may argue that you are not fully cooperating with your recovery and deny your claim. For example, an applicant in Mississippi who does not adhere to a prescribed physical therapy regimen may face challenges in proving the full extent of their disability.
The Role of Documentation in Your Claim
In addition to regular treatment, it is critical to ensure that all medical records are properly documented. This includes:
- Doctor’s Notes and Diagnoses: Your medical records should include detailed notes from your healthcare provider, outlining your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment plan. Make sure that your doctor is thorough in recording how your condition impacts your ability to work.
- Test Results: Keep a record of all diagnostic tests, such as MRIs, X-rays, or blood tests, as they provide objective evidence of your medical condition.
- Treatment Plans and Follow-Ups: Your records should clearly show the treatment plan your doctor has recommended, whether it involves medication, surgery, or physical therapy. Be sure to follow up on these treatments and keep all related documentation.
- Hospitalizations and Emergency Room Visits: If your condition has led to hospital stays or emergency room visits, include these records in your application. These can help further substantiate the seriousness of your condition.
Seek Legal Assistance Today
At the American Disability Action Group, our Arkansas & Nationwide Social Security Disability Attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of the Social Security Disability application process. If you need assistance with your claim, contact us today for expert guidance and support.
Source:
ssa.gov/OP_Home/rulings/di/01/SSR2016-03-di-01.html
