Medical evidence is a key part of getting your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim approved. This evidence is the foundation of your case, showing just how serious your disability is and how it affects your job. What should you know about the importance of medical evidence?
What forms can medical evidence take?
When you file an SSDI claim, you are asserting that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from supporting yourself. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at your medical evidence to see if your health problem qualifies as a disability.
Medical evidence can take various forms, each playing a crucial role in supporting your claim:
- Medical records – Medical evidence often starts with records from your healthcare providers. These records can highlight your diagnosis, prognosis, treatment plans and your response to treatment. If you have mental health concerns, records from your psychologist or psychiatrist are also key.
- Physicians’ statements – Detailed statements from your treating physicians that explain how your condition limits your ability to work.
- Diagnostic test results – Objective test results like MRI scans, X-rays and blood tests give solid proof of your condition.
- Medication records – Lists the medicines you take and the dose. You should also note any relevant side effects.
- Therapy and rehabilitation notes – Records from physical therapists, occupational therapists or other rehabilitation specialists document your therapy progress and limitations.
- Functional capacity evaluation (FCE) – An FCE is a set of tests that can illustrate your physical or mental abilities as well as your limitations.
- Work history – Information about your previous employment can help establish how your disability has impacted your ability to perform work you once did.
This kind of clear, factual medical evidence is a crucial factor the SSA will consider when deciding on your claim. If the evidence you provide is not compelling, you might have to wait longer for benefits or receive a denial of your claim.
With thorough medical records, however, you can highlight the severity of your condition and show its significant impact on your life. Seeking insights from an attorney with experience in SSDI claims can also help you identify where your claim may need more support. When you back up your claim with clear evidence and have the right guidance, you stand a better chance of getting the help you need to handle your disability.
