What is a Disability Benefits Consultative Examination?
There are several steps when applying for disability benefits. One of these steps may include a consultative examination. While these are not always required, it can be helpful to become familiar with when they are requested and what they involve. The more you can prepare, the more you could increase your chances of receiving benefits. Consulting with a Wilmington disability lawyer can also help with the preparation process.
WHEN ARE CONSULTATIVE EXAMINATIONS REQUIRED?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) usually orders a consultative examination when there is not enough medical evidence. This includes medical evidence from any 
medical sources like your doctor, therapist, or specialist. What the SSA is trying to do with a consultative examination is gather additional evidence to judge your disability claim.
Several additional reasons may lead to a consultative examination. Common examples include when your doctor does not want to do the examination or there are inconsistencies tied to your doctor. Other cases may involve distrust of the doctor to objectively perform the evaluation. The reputation of a medical professional may influence this.
Certain situations may not require a consultative examination. For example, a simple lack of medical evidence like a missing imaging test could be resolved. The person would have to go back to the doctor, have an imaging test done, and submit this to the SSA. In some cases, this is all it takes to avoid a consultative examination.
Only qualified and licensed professionals like psychologists or physicians can conduct the consultative examination. The SSA may choose the examiner, or you may be allowed to choose. One of the main outcomes of a consultative examination is the report. This report will detail the nature, severity, and duration of your disability.
WHAT TO EXPECT WITH A CONSULTATIVE EXAMINATION
Do not panic if you have been ordered to undergo a consultative examination. These can be thought of as similar to a standard physical at the doctor’s office. The person conducting the exam will be a licensed professional whose goal is to conduct as objective an assessment as possible.
The steps of consultative examinations include collecting basic identifying information, medical history, and current health-related concerns. A physical examination might be conducted depending on the type of disability. Lab and imaging tests may also be conducted depending on the disability.
Lastly, this information will be compiled to generate a medical opinion. This requires thinking about how your disability will impact your ability to perform work tasks. Limitations will be listed and described in detail related to various physical abilities. Mental and physical limitations will be considered.
If you have questions, then feel free to contact a Wilmington disability lawyer for advice. An experienced lawyer can help you prepare for your examination.
DISABILITY ATTORNEY IN DELAWARE
Going through the disability application process can be intimidating. Talk to a Delaware disability lawyer if you have questions about your consultative examination. All you have to do is call Edelstein Martin & Nelson by dialing (302) 295-5050 for a free consultation today. Our team of lawyers might be able to improve your chances of receiving disability benefits. We can be found in Wilmington, DE.
