What kind of medical evidence does Social Security need to make a disability decision?
When applying for Social Security Disability in Washington, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires medical evidence in order to make a disability decision. This evidence can come from a variety of sources, including treating physicians, psychiatrists, psychological reports, and laboratory findings. The SSA will look for medical evidence that shows you have a medically-determinable physical or mental impairment that keeps you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity. This evidence must show that the impairment has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Some general types of evidence the SSA may use to make a disability decision are medical records, reports from physical or mental examinations, test results from imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans, and laboratory tests. The SSA will also look for evidence that you have been receiving ongoing medical treatment for your impairment, such as medication, physical therapy, or psychological counseling. The SSA also needs statements from your treating doctors about your medical condition, including your diagnosis, prognosis, summary of objective medical findings, and any medical opinions that you are unable to work due to your impairment. Additionally, they may request detailed statements from non-medical sources, such as friends, family members, teachers, and employers, to collect information about your daily activities. Ultimately, the SSA will use all of this evidence to determine whether or not your disability qualifies for Social Security Disability benefits.
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