Founding Attorney
When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, many qualified applicants face initial denials due to insufficient documentation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) must see clear, detailed evidence of your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. If you don’t provide the agency with the right documents and supporting evidence, you might become one of the unlucky applicants to receive a denial.
Medical Records from Primary Care Physicians
Your primary care physician’s records are the foundation of your SSDI claim. As they treat you over time, your doctor should keep documents that establish your ongoing health challenges and treatments, providing the SSA with crucial insights into your condition. Primary care records should include:
- Office visit notes – Details of your symptoms, limitations, and how your condition has progressed over time
- Treatment plans – Documentation showing your adherence to prescribed medical care and any adjustments needed due to your response to treatment
- Physical examination results – Regular examinations that track changes in your condition and physical capabilities
- Medication history – Records of prescribed medications, their effectiveness, and any side effects that affect your ability to work
Regular visits to your primary care physician strengthen your claim by demonstrating consistent medical attention and ongoing health challenges. These records help establish a clear timeline of your condition and its effects on your daily activities.
Specialist Reports and Test Results
While primary care records are essential, documentation from medical specialists often provides the detailed evidence the SSA needs to fully understand your condition. Different specialists offer unique insights into specific aspects of your disability:
- Diagnostic testing – MRIs, X-rays, CT scans, and other imaging studies that show physical conditions
- Laboratory results – Blood work, urinalysis, and other tests that document underlying medical conditions
- Specialist evaluations – Detailed reports from experts in specific medical fields, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or rheumatologists
- Mental health records – When applicable, documentation from psychiatrists or psychologists describing how mental health conditions affect your ability to work
The combination of specialist reports and objective test results creates a comprehensive picture of your medical condition. These records provide concrete evidence of your disability and help demonstrate why you cannot maintain substantial gainful employment.
Additional Supporting Evidence
Beyond standard medical documentation, several other types of evidence can strengthen your SSDI claim. These may include:
- Hospitalization records – Details of inpatient stays, emergency room visits, and any surgical procedures you’ve undergone
- Physical therapy documentation – Reports showing your participation in rehabilitation efforts and any ongoing physical limitations
- Daily activity logs – Personal records describing how your condition affects your everyday activities, from household tasks to personal care
- Pharmacy records – A comprehensive list of your medications, including frequency of refills and any changes in dosage
These additional records help paint a complete picture of how your medical condition affects your daily life. They demonstrate both the severity of your condition and your commitment to following prescribed treatments.
Contact Grech Law Firm Today
Strong supporting evidence is the foundation of a good SSDI claim. A well-documented claim provides clear information about how your condition prevents you from working and why you qualify for benefits. With each piece of evidence you provide, you build a more powerful case for approval.
My name is Justen Grech, and as an experienced Social Security disability lawyer, I understand the importance of thorough documentation in SSDI claims. My extensive experience in disability law means I can draft an application that includes all the necessary evidence to support your claim. If you need help with your SSDI application or appeal, contact Grech Law Firm Attorney & Counselor today for a free consultation. Serving Utica, Mount Clemens, Sterling Heights, Warren, and Troy, Michigan, I’m ready to help you pursue the benefits you deserve.