What to Do If the Social Security Administration Schedules You for a Consultative Examination
You’ve applied for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits and received notice that the Social Security Administration (SSA) has scheduled you for a consultative examination (CE) with “their doctor.”
Don’t panic. This is a standard part of the process. The SSA may require a CE if they need additional information to decide your claim. This could happen if your medical records are incomplete or if a specific test is missing from your documentation.
At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we understand how stressful this can feel. That’s why we’re here to guide you through every step. If you’ve been scheduled for a CE, here’s our advice to ensure the process goes smoothly:
1. Do Not Miss Your Appointment
The SSA scheduled and paid for this appointment because they need more information to make a fair decision on your claim. Missing your CE could result in the SSA deciding your case based solely on the information they already have, which often leads to a denial. While the SSA might reschedule your exam if you have a valid reason for missing it, this could delay your claim by weeks or even months.
2. Don’t Be Late
Arriving late to your appointment could lead to the doctor refusing to see you, potentially harming your claim. In some cases, your CE might be rescheduled, but this will also delay your determination. Additionally, the doctor’s report will note whether you arrived on time, as well as your demeanor during the exam. To avoid any issues, plan to arrive early and be polite.
3. Stay Calm and Relaxed
The doctor conducting your CE is an independent medical professional whose job is to provide an unbiased opinion about your impairments and limitations. While the SSA pays the doctor for the exam, the doctor is not working against you. Their role is to provide additional evidence to help the claims examiner better understand your condition. Remember, this exam is only one part of your overall case. Take a deep breath and approach the appointment calmly.
4. Be Honest
The doctor and staff will observe your behavior from the moment you arrive. They’ll take note of how you walk, sit, stand, and interact. These observations will be compared to what you tell them about your symptoms. Avoid exaggerating your pain or limitations—it will harm your credibility and your case. For example, don’t claim you can only sit for 10 minutes if you sat in the waiting room for 30 minutes without issue. Be truthful and straightforward about your condition.
5. Be Specific and Descriptive
When describing your pain and symptoms, use specific and descriptive language. Simply saying, “My back hurts,” isn’t enough. Instead, explain the type, intensity, and duration of your pain. Use words like stabbing, aching, burning, throbbing, or shooting to help the doctor understand what you’re experiencing. Think about how you’ll describe your symptoms before the exam. The more detailed you are, the more accurate the doctor’s report will be—and that can make a significant difference in your case.
Why Having an SSD Lawyer Matters
The SSD process can be overwhelming, especially when facing roadblocks like consultative exams. Having an experienced Social Security Disability attorney by your side can make all the difference. At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we’ve helped countless clients successfully navigate the SSD process, from initial applications to appeals.
If you need assistance applying for benefits or appealing a denied claim, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for the benefits you deserve.