What is a consultative exam?

A consultative exam (CE) is a medical examination requested by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help evaluate a person’s medical condition in California when determining eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. A CE is a non-invasive, one-time evaluation performed by an SSA-selected physician, whose job it is to assess an individual’s level of functioning and document any impairments, diagnosis, and treatment. The CE is a mandatory part of the application process and involves filling out forms, providing medical records, participating in a physical exam, and answering questions from the physician. The purpose of a CE is to collect all the necessary medical evidence to determine whether an individual is disabled and cannot work due to their disability. During the exam, the physician will ask questions and conduct tests to assess any physical and/or mental limitations that may be preventing a person from working. The results of the CE will be used to help determine if the applicant meets the criteria set forth by the SSA for SSD benefits eligibility. The SSA will review the results of the CE and make an independent decision regarding the applicant’s eligibility.

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What is a consultative exam?

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