How can I get my Disability Case Review Started?
Persons receiving Social Security Disability benefits are required to undergo a periodic review to ascertain the condition of their disability at any point of time. The initial disability benefits awards letter has the mention of the review; the period for the review however differs from case to case based on the severity of the disability. The deciding factor for the review however can be classified broadly under the following heads based on the medical condition.
- Medical Improvement Expected
If the medical condition is such that there are all the chances for improvement, the first review will be between 6 to 18 months post resumption of disability benefits.
- Improvement Possible
If the medical condition is such that improvement in medical condition of the beneficiary is possible, then in that case the periodicity of the review will be 3 years.
- Improvement Not Expected
If the medical condition is such that improvement in the medical ¬condition is not expected then in that case the periodicity of the review will be 5 to 7 years.
In case there is no improvement in the disability condition then the benefits continue. The Social Security Administration office sends a letter to the beneficiaries informing them about the impending review and requesting an audience at the Social Security Office. During the review, general enquiries are made with regards to the medical condition ,details of any medical treatment that may have been received post submission of last details to the Social Security Office and details of work carried out, if any, after having applied for the Disability benefits or since last review.
Disability Decision during the Review
The Disability decision during the disability review process is taken by the Disability Determination Services (DDS) in the concerned state wherein an Examiner and Medical Consultant review all the available information as also seek some reports that may be required from the doctor. In case the information available is found to be insufficient to reach a decision on the review of the disability, the beneficiary is required to undergo a special examination. The expenditure incurred on the examination is born by the DDS and the details of the examination including place, date and time are intimated to the beneficiary.
The decision regarding choice of expert physician for the disability examination can be made by the beneficiary however the details of the physician including address and contact details are required to be intimated to the Disability Determination Services office in advance.
