When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) will decide whether you qualify for benefits. They could schedule a consultative exam to help them make a decision on your claim. This is a medical examination that is scheduled by the SSA with a physician that they choose. This is a physical or mental examination that they will use when deciding whether you are unable to work due to your medical condition.
When Could You Be Required to Attend a Consultative Exam?
Whether the SSA will schedule a consultative exam will depend on your disability and the evidence you submit to support your application. Examples of when this exam may be required include:
- Additional medical information is needed that is not included in your medical records.
- There are gaps in your medical treatment, or you have not been treated by a doctor for a while.
- The SSA cannot obtain your medical records from your doctor for a reason beyond your control, such as your physician’s death or refusal to supply them.
- There are inconsistencies in your medical records.
- The SSA needs specialized medical evidence to decide your claim.
- You could experience a change in your medical condition in the future that may affect your ability to work.
Importance of Attending Your Consultative Exam
You must attend your CE Exam if the SSA requests that you attend one. If you fail to attend your exam, the disability examiner could determine that you are not being cooperative and deny your application.
Who Performs a Consultative Exam?
Your treating physician can conduct a consultative exam. Often it is performed by an independent doctor hired by the SSA. These doctors do not work for the SSA.
What Happens at a Consultative Exam?
The purpose of your exam is not to treat you. It is to determine how serious your disability is.
The extent of your consultative exam will depend on your disability and the questions that the SSA has about how it affects your ability to work.
However, there are specific rules on how long your exam should last. Here are some requirements that should be followed:
- A general physical exam should be for at least 30 minutes.
- A musculoskeletal or neurological examination should take at least 20 minutes to perform.
- A psychological exam should last at least 60 minutes and a psychiatric exam should last for at least 40 minutes.
- Other types of examinations are required to be for at least 30 minutes.
Once the exam is completed, the physician would submit a written report to the SSA.
Who Pays for a Consultative Exam?
The SSA will pay for a consultative exam and any diagnostic tests associated with it. You should not be charged for these services.
Are you considering filing for SSDI? Does the SSA require you to attend a consultative exam? Call our Roswell office to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Social Security disability lawyers who can help you obtain the SSDI benefits you are entitled to.
What to Do If the SSA Requests a CE Exam
A cumulative medical exam can be a quick procedure, but it can have a big impact on your SSDI application. It is important to remember that the doctor performing it does not work for the SSA, but is being paid by them. Here are important tips on how to handle your exam:
- Be polite and respectful during your exam.
- Expect to be asked about your symptoms by the examining doctor. You want to give him short answers and include concrete examples.
- You should be truthful when discussing your illness or medical condition. Do not exaggerate or downplay the symptoms that you are experiencing.
Retain an Attorney Immediately If You Receive a Notice of a CE Exam
One of the most important first steps you should take if the SSA notifies you of a CE Exam is to retain an experienced disability attorney. Your attorney can give you advice on how to best handle your exam and ensure that you receive the SSDI that you deserve. Call the Injury and Disability Law Center today to schedule a free consultation to learn how our skilled lawyers can help you with your SSDI claim.
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