Importance of Medical Records in SSDI Claims
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2010/05/25 - Updated: 2024/08/31
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Disability Insurance - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: A critical factor involved in evaluating SSDI benefits is medical evidence presented on your behalf. Medical records which are incomplete, lack details, or are vague can result in a denial of benefits if your case has gone to the appeals stage of the process.
Introduction
Regardless of the medical condition that has caused your disability, one of the most critical factors involved in evaluating your case for SSDI benefits is the medical evidence that is presented on your behalf. Thorough medical evidence is used to back up your claim so you can well understand how important this documentation is. Additionally, medical records which are incomplete, lack details, or are vague can result in a denial of benefits if your case has gone to the appeals stage of the process.
One of the recommendations we always make where any disability claim is concerned is that you should provide the SSA with your medical evidence rather than waiting for them to request your medical records. This provides you with proof that you have filed the most up-to-date records. However, you will be able to review any documents that the SSA has regarding your case and when they are evaluating them.
Main Content
Different types of medical evidence:
Putting it simply, the more medical evidence you can present in your disability case, the greater the likelihood that your SSDI benefits will be approved. The following is a listing of what is considered to be good medical evidence.
Definitive diagnosis:
The diagnosis of your medical or mental condition is the single most powerful piece of evidence you can provide. However in many cases, this won't be enough for the SSA judge to render their decision. Additionally, the definitive diagnosis is used in conjunction with the SSA's published listings.
Longitudinal treatment records:
This is the evidence of the extensive and long-term medical treatment associated with your disability. Oftentimes, the more extensive your medical file is, the more favorable the judge's decision may be.
No references to drug seeking behavior:
If substance abuse has been documented with your case, the SSA will deny your benefits if they feel that the substance has created your current medical condition.
No references to malingering:
Aa malingerer usually who tries to obtain drugs or other types of medications without a basis for obtaining them. It could prejudice your case if the treating physician makes a notation that they are suspicious of malingering.
Compliance with medications and treatment
Taking your prescribed medications and following your treatment regimen with regularity are critical to your case. If you have been remiss in maintaining that medication and treatment regimen, chances are the SSA judge will not view your case favorably.
Necessary physician forms
Whenever possible, you want your physician to provide several documents such as a checklist, a letter signifying your limitations, and a narrative report that backs your case.
Related Information
- How to Get and Not Lose SSDI: This article outlines how to get SSDI benefits and what can deprive you of the right to receive this money.
- SSDI Claims: Consultative Examinations: Consultative examinations are sometimes requested in an effort to obtain the opinions of outside medical professionals in order to evaluate disability claims.
- Factors For Winning SSDI Claims: Age, Employment, Education: SSDI Judges will consider information into their decision-making process, including your age, your work history background, and your level of education.
- Working After SSDI Approval - Disability Employment: This article reviews the basic social security rules concerning earnings after a finding of disability.
- SSI and SSDI Benefits for Children with Disability: Children who are diagnosed as disabled may be eligible for SSI or SSDI benefits.
- Social Security Video Hearings for Disability Cases: Video hearings may help with the backlog of SSA disability cases caused by increased demand inadequate funding and under-staffing.
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.