http://www.disabilityrep.com/

Search carefully

Social Security Administration is

http://WWW.SSA.GOV Phone: 1-800-772-1213

Who is disabled? 1- Christopher Reeves after his accident that left him a

paraplegic?2 – A child who is mentally retarded and needs leg

braces to walk?3 -Your 62 year old neighbor worked construction his

entire life, but after hurting his back on the job can only do a desk job?

4- Dr. Jones who after 15 years of being a highly regarded surgeon, was in an MVA that caused so much brain damage he wouldn’t be able to pass a GED test.

5 steps:

• Are you earning “SGA”?• Do you have a severe

impairment?• Do you meet a medical

listing?• Are you able to return

to your prior work?• Are you able to do any

work?

SGA

Yes. Don’t apply No. Go to step 2 Not sure?

Process:• File your application• Appeal for Hearing• Appeal to Appeals Council• Appeal to Federal Court• Appeal to Circuit Court

Be prepared

• Provide complete medical information-----

• List of medications------

• 15-year work history---

Names, addresses, dates, phone numbers

Dosage, reason, script provide

As much as you can remember

Follow doctor’s orders

Keep tract of symptoms

Communicate with your medical providers

Now is the time to help your case.

Follow doctors’ advice• Keep your appointments. • Take your medications.• Diet, rest, exercise as directed.

• IMPORTANT: If you are unable to do any thing the doctor requests due to symptoms let him/her know ASAP.

Keep Track of Symptoms

• Use a journal

• Use a calendar

• Use a camera if appropriate.

Communicate with your medical providers.

• Including your OB/GYN, eye doctors, even DDS. (Don’t say “good” or “fine” if you feel awful!)

• If your doctor isn’t aware of your symptoms how can he tell SS your limitations? … again, every symptom every time.

• Let your doctor know if you can’t follow through for any reason: costs, distance, pain, memory, IBS issues, etc.

Social Security Rulings

• SSR 12-2p

• SSR 14-1p for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has some reference to FM.

What does SS need

• A true diagnosis, preferably from a Rheumatologist and with trigger points identified.

• Clinic notes that reflect symptoms with frequency, duration, etc.

• Medical opinion of restrictions and limitations.