Can’t Afford a Doctor for Social Security Disability?

Can’t Afford a Doctor for Social Security Disability?

I frequently am asked by potential clients. “I can’t afford a doctor for social security disability, what should I do? Without the ability to work, you do not have any income coming in. Without that income, it can be a strain, or impossible to see a doctor. But medical records can be one of the most important parts of your claim. So what should you do if you are in this situation?

If You Can’t Afford a Doctor for Social Security Disability What Can You Do?

My first resource is to look to the community for help. Fortunately, many counties have clinics for those with low-incomes or even no-incomes.

In Duval County, for example, UF Health has a program called the “City Contract”. In this program, those with financial troubles can access health care for low to no costs, including prescriptions. Other counties have similar resources.

The Florida Department of Health also offerers help. They typically have physicians on staff to address citizens’ health concerns. Contact the Florida Department of Health for more information.

Applying for SSDI without seeing a Doctor

If you are applying for Social Security and have not seen a doctor, it could hurt your case. If you are alleging a certain illness or condition you need to have medical records to back your claim. Without them, the examiner who is reviewing your claim has an option. They can send you to one of the doctors that Social Security uses to perform a “consultative examination.”

These physical and medical consultative exams are for those that have no records. If you are alleging mental or physical impairment and have not received any (or minimal) treatment would have to attend both exams.

These exams determine the severity and limitation of their alleged disabling conditions. A consultative examination is not meant for you to establish care with the doctor. It is instead meant for Social Security to get an understanding of your current physical or mental health and conditions.

Unfortunately, while the consultative exams may seem good on the surface, they are just brief examinations. While they are better than nothing, their only goal is to to get a current status of a disability claimant’s condition. With this limited information, the disability examiner can make a decision and close the case.

Free Social Security Disability Consultation

You do not have to go it alone. Our experienced Jacksonville Social Security Attorneys offer a free consultation. Come in and sit down with them. They can help guide you through this often difficult and confusing process. Call us at 904-777-7777 or email us using our simple contact form.