Medical Issues
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are payable to claimants who can demonstrate and document a medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) that prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activity. The first inquiry, therefore, in proving a disability case focuses on evaluating the medical evidence. In order to better understand medical terminology, testing, and overall medical evidence, this section includes articles and links to information on a variety of medical conditions. In addition, subsections include proposed and final changes to SSA’s Listing of Impairments, links to medical websites, and information on other advocacy resources in the Medicaid and Medicare areas (Empire Justice Center Health Page/NY Health Access Page).
Calling All Medical Experts
We have heard horror stories of vocational experts (VEs) testifying by cell phone while driving across the New York State Thruway. How about medical experts (MEs) by phone? HALLEX I-2-5-42 states that live medical expert testimony in person, by video conference, or telephone conference are the preferred methods, although written interrogatories may be used. Read More
What Is...the Mental Status Exam?
The mental status exam (MSE) is the cornerstone in the evaluation of any patient presenting with a medical, neurologic or psychiatric disorder that affects thought, emotion or behavior. The exam is also important in assessing changes in thought processes caused by use of medication. Read More
What Is...Migraine Related Nausea
Many people with migraines also experience stomach problems and nausea with their headaches. In fact, migraines are the type of headache most likely to make patients nauseated. Eight out of every 10 people in the U.S. who are diagnosed with migraines report experiencing nausea. Although millions of people suffer from migraines with nausea, scientists have not yet been able to determine exactly why. Read More
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Disability Law News - December 2011
The Disability Law News is a quarterly newsletter published for DAP advocates. Featured in this issue highlights the announcement of a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2012 for monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Additional articles discuss ALJ bias and defining the rolls of representatives and ALJs. Also in this issue you will find articles on Regulations, Court Decisions, and Administrative Decisions.
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Disability Law News - September 2011
The Disability Law News is a quarterly newsletter published for DAP advocates. Featured in this issue is an in-depth article titled "Social Seciruty Ruling Affects New Applications" describing Social Security Ruling (SSR) 11-1p, which precludes the filing of a subsequent application for benefits while an appeal is pending. Also in this issue you will find articles on Regulations, Court Decisions, Administrative Decisions, and the Bulletin Board along with other articles. Read More
