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Social Security Claims And Medical Evidence: The Facts

If you think you are eligible for social security benefits, you have to go through an application process. One of the most important parts of making your claim is your medical records. These records are a crucial part of your evidence package to show that you qualify for disability benefits.

Here are some things you need to know about your medical records and social security disability benefits.

Which Medical Records Do You Need to Provide?

Medical records for a social security claim include a wealth of information in your charts held by your medical providers. Your records can include the doctor's notes, a therapist's notes, x-rays, blood test results, scans, and any other information pertaining to your medical condition. You should also provide any information you have about surgeries and other therapies you have received.

Mental health claims rely heavily on information from a therapist or psychiatrist. You should have information about your diagnosis, your progress during your therapy, any prescriptions you take, your prognosis, and any additional information that can help prove that your mental health condition qualifies for social security benefits.

Do You Submit Subsequent Medical Records?

If you have already filed your social security claim and you receive additional treatment after your claim has started, you need to call your attorney to see what your next step should be. Ideally, you should have all of your information ready prior to submitting the claim. However, your attorney can take some steps to amend your medical file after it has been submitted. New treatments can potentially help your claim, so it is important to make sure that information is included. Always send any new information you have to your attorney as soon as possible.

What If Your Medical Records Cannot be Obtained in Time?

If for some reason you cannot get your hands on your records in time for your hearing, you and your attorney will need to file some forms to request the administrative law judge to review your documents after the claim has started. Keep in mind the judge may not review any records after the claim has begun, but it never hurts to make the request.

Filing a social security disability claim is a long and tenuous process. You need to be fully prepared with all of your evidence, especially your medical records. If you want to get a claim started, be sure to work with a social security disability attorney to ensure you have a successful outcome.