Why Does My Disability Application with Social Security (SSA) require a Consultative Medical Exam?
Social Security (SSA) requires many who apply for their monthly Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments to attend a Consultative Medical Exam (CME), and it might confuse you what the purpose of this consultation might be or if it’s really necessary. So let’s understand together what are the reasons for this process and what to expect for your Disability claim.
What is a Consultative Medical Exam (CME)?
A Consultative Medical Exam is a medical evaluation ordered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is crucial that you attend this exam to provide the SSA with the medical evidence it needs to make a decision on your disability claim. Without this exam, the SSA may not have enough evidence to approve your benefits. This exam is not a reflection on your case but rather a necessary step in the process to ensure all medical facts are considered.
The CME is often the SSA’s way of filling in any missing information about your condition.
Consequences of Missing the CME
If you miss your scheduled CME without a valid reason, your claim may be denied. The SSA relies heavily on the results of this exam to make a decision. Skipping the exam can signal to the SSA that you are not fully cooperating with the process, which can lead to a swift denial of your application. This could set back your claim by months or even years if you have to reapply.
What to Do If You Can’t Make It
If you are unable to attend the CME on the scheduled day or time due to a valid reason, such as illness or a scheduling conflict, it’s essential to contact the SSA as soon as possible to reschedule the appointment for you.
If Casa de la Justicia is representing you for your Disability claim, please contact your Case Manager in charge of your case to let them know of your scheduling conflict so they can help you with this situation for you.
Our biggest advice
DO NOT miss your CME, because the SSA will have to postpone the appointment for another day in the future and this will further delay your approval for monthly Disability payments.
When does the SSA commonly request a CME?
Sometimes, the information in your medical records doesn’t fully explain how your condition limits your ability to work. Other times, there may be gaps in your treatment history, or your records might not be up-to-date.
What to Expect During the Exam
The exam is not meant to treat you or provide a diagnosis, but rather to assess your current health status and limitations. The doctor may ask questions about your symptoms, conduct basic tests, and review your medical history.
It’s important to understand that the doctor conducting the exam is a third-party physician, not someone who works for you. Their job is to give an impartial evaluation that will help the SSA make its decision.
How will this exam impact my Disability claim?
After the exam, the doctor will submit a report to the SSA detailing their findings. This report, along with your existing medical records, can either strengthen or clarify your claim and will further help the SSA determine whether you qualify for monthly disability payments.
Conclusion
Being asked to attend a Consultative Medical Exam may seem daunting, but it’s a routine part of the Social Security Disability application process. By attending and cooperating with the process, you’re helping your claim move forward smoothly, bringing you one step closer to a decision.
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