Too often, a disabled individual will be denied disability not because that person is able to work, but because he does not have the support of his treating doctor; or, because he has not had medical treatment for his disability in a long time.
Treating doctors are in the best position to know whether their patients are disabled to the point where they cannot sustain a full-time job. But doctors cannot attest to disability unless they actually see their patients. If you suffer from a chronic, debilitating illness and have not sought treatment or have not seen your treating doctor in a long time, it likely will adversely affect your disability claim. If you have never sought treatment, you likely will be denied disability benefits, altogether.
Even people who treat with their doctors regularly face many obstacles with insurance carriers. Insurance carriers look for reasons to deny benefits. Do not make it easy for them by neglecting to keep your doctor appointments.
If You Do Treat Regularly . . .
Remember that your doctor’s treatment notes need to accurately reflect your condition. Treatment notes, diagnostic tests, and doctors’ narratives all are pieces of the puzzle insurance carriers and the Social Security Administration look to in order to determine what your impairments are, how they affect your everyday functioning, and how much they would affect your ability to work.
So that means that you have a part to play in your treatment. When you see your treating doctor, always be honest about how you’re feeling. Keep track of any new medications or therapies your doctor has prescribed, and note any changes, good or bad, in your condition. Make sure to communicate these changes, if any, with your doctor. Also remember to alert your doctor to any adverse side effects of any medications. That gives him/her the opportunity to change your medication out for another that better suits you.
And, if you are considering going out on permanent disability, make sure to have a conversation with your treating doctor. Have your doctor give you a prognosis to guide you in your decision. If your doctor supports a finding of disability, that will go a long way towards a positive outcome of your disability claim.