A primary purpose of Social Security is to provide financial assistance to the disabled. This is because a disability may prevent a person from making a living and providing self-support. When determining whether an applicant has a qualifying disability, he or she may be asked to undergo a Consultative Examination (CE).
Consultative Examinations occur where a claimant’s medical records present little or no evidence of a disability, or where a claimant has not been seen by a doctor for an extended period of time. The SSA may want an ear exam confirmed or other independently performed test or examination. Some applicants denied benefits, even after reconsideration, are sometimes required to attend a CE. It’s not unusual for an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in a case to request a consultative exam. But keep in mind, each case is different.
CEs are performed by independent physicians under contract to perform these services for the SSA or Kentucky Disability Determination Services (DDS). The purpose of a CE is neither to deliver medical treatment nor provide medical advice. Instead, its purpose is to provide a recent snapshot of a claimant’s condition (and limitations) without anything more.
During the Consultative Exam itself, the examining physician will request information about your medical history and your subjective complaints. A physical examination will also be conducted. This medical professional may complete any tests specifically requested by Social Security or the Kentucky DDS.
The CE (in theory) produces examination report that contains your medical and treatment histories, the physical exam’s results, and any laboratory findings. Finally, it includes an estimate or assessment of your ability to perform work-related functions. Because the CE is solely an assessment, the examining physician will not give treatment advice or any opinion regarding your qualification and receipt of disability benefits.
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE MISS A CONSULTATIVE EXAMINATION! If you do, and there is no good cause, you risk that your application for benefits will be denied for that reason. Always try to immediately reschedule a missed appointment if you are unable to attend a CE.
Be proactive. Do NOT be passive. Social Security is not obligated to reschedule a Consultative Exam. Thus, never wait for them to do so, reschedule it yourself immediately as soon as possible!
Of course, you must have a valid reason for your failure to keep the appointment for the CE. Keep a written log of what happened, when, where, and why. Otherwise, without a legitimate reason, Social Security will likely deny your application for disability benefits.
Even if you appeal a denial of benefits, the ALJ will probably want to know the reason for missing the Consultative Examination. ALJs are not fond of applicants who do not keep appointments they set. No one wants to sit through an entire hearing that consists of the determination of why an applicant failed to keep an exam ordered by the ALJ.
A Consultative Examination means that your case is progressing. It also means that there may not be enough evidence to support your case for an award disability benefits. One of the best ways to make sure you understand all of your options associated with applying for disability benefits is to retain the services of an experienced, knowledgeable and qualified Kentucky Social Security Disability attorney. Contact Sullivan Law Office today. We offer free consultations, so there is absolutely nothing to lose! We look forward to hearing from you. We look forward to hearing from you. Call 888-587-0228 or visit us online.
