Necessary Medical Records for Disability Hearings

It’s challenging to apply for disability benefits as you must prove to the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you deserve financial assistance. The thing is that the agency has strict requirements that applicants should meet, wherein most initial insurance applications end up in denial.

Fortunately, you may still appeal the denial by requesting a hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ). You will get a chance to prove that you deserve the disability benefits by bringing sufficient and compelling documents to support your claim.

So, this article explains the documents you should present in a disability hearing.

Proving Disability for Social Security Benefits

To qualify for Social Security benefits, you must have a disability that:

• Prevents you from earning income above the Substantial Gainful Activity rate
• May last for more than 12 months or cause death

So, the medical documents you collect for a disability hearing should prove these two definitions of disability. You may call a Burbank Social Security benefits for advice on what documents to gather and review what you already have.

Key Medical Documents to Present in a Disability Hearing

Each condition requires a unique set of medical documents to prove their disability in an SSA hearing. For example, cancer patients should present a biopsy report, but you won’t need one to prove limb amputation because of an accident.

However, here are the essential medical records that will support your disability benefits application:

1. Medical Diagnosis

The ALJ wants to know your exact condition. Thus, your physician’s diagnosis is vital to qualify for disability benefits.

The document should include the initial diagnosis of your condition and the complications it caused. For example, Suppose you have diabetes which causes coronary artery disease. In this case, your diagnosis report should prove both conditions.

2. Medical Test Results

Medical test results prove the condition you have to act as concrete evidence that backs your diagnosis in a disability hearing.

The thing is that you should present results that are suitable for your disability. While generic tests like x-rays, blood tests, and urinalysis are helpful, you may also need specialized examinations like biopsy and Electrocardiogram (ECG).

3. Treatment Records

Bring documentation proving the treatments you have undergone, and you still need like:

• Medications
• Surgery
• Therapies

You and your doctor should also describe the following:

• Treatment process
• Side effects
• Results or response of your body

These details help the ALJ determine if your disability prevents you from returning to work or if you can already earn enough income. For example, if medications make you sleepy or weak, the ALJ may think you can’t work full-time.

4. Medical History

Present an intensive copy of your medical history before and while suffering from a disability. However, it can prove your condition is worsening and that you deserve the benefits.

5. Physician’s Statement

Another vital medical document you need is your doctor’s statement. This report should detail your:

• Diagnosis
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Capacity to work
• Expert opinion about your condition

This document is strong proof as your physician is an expert that knows you and your condition very well.

6. Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Form

You may also ask your physician to fill out an RFC form that you can present in the hearing. It will prove the limitations you have because of your disability.

Call a Social Security Benefits Lawyer in Burbank for Help on Disability Hearing

Collecting medical documentation is vital in getting the SSA approval for disability benefits. So, be sure you present new and updated versions of these documents in your disability hearing.

Hiring a Burbank Social Security benefits attorney lets you have a professional guide throughout the application process.