Disability Evaluation

1. Disability Evaluation

2. Definition of Disability The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impair-ment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

3. Medically Determinable Impairment • A physical or mental impairment is an impairment resulting from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities which can be shown by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques. • A physical or mental impairment must be established by medical evidence consisting of signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings-not only by the individual's statement of symptoms.

4. How is a Disability Decision Made Sequential Evaluation • Current work activity • Severity of his or her impairment(s) • Does impairment(s) meet or medically • equals a listing • Residual functional capacity • Past work, and his or her age, education, • and work experience.

5. The Disability Determination Process • Role of the Social Security Field Office • State Disability Determination Service

7. Role of the Health Professional Treating sources or other medical sources provide medical evidence on patients’ behalf • Physician • Clinic • Hospital • Workers Comp • Consultative Exam • Psychologist • Urgent Care • VA • IHS

13. Social Security’s Online Services • Retirement, Survivor & Disability • Applications • Retirement/Survivors/Disability Planner • Medicare Card Replacements • Request a Statement • Request a Benefit Verification Letter • Change of Address • Add or Change Direct Deposit • Appeal a Decision

14. Visit Our Website or Call! www.socialsecurity.gov -or- 1-800-772-1213 TTY 1-800-325-0778 -or- 3500 N Campbell Avenue -or- 88 West 38th Street