Why Medical Evidence Matters for SSDI

The SSA does not approve SSDI applications based on your word alone. They need clear, objective medical proof that:

• You have a medically determinable impairment.
• Your condition limits your ability to work.
• The impairment is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

The stronger your medical evidence, the higher your chances of approval.

Types of Medical Evidence Needed in Georgia

To support your SSDI application, you should provide as many of the following as possible:

• Doctor’s Reports – Notes from your treating physicians explaining your diagnosis, treatments, and limitations.
• Hospital and Clinic Records – Admission records, discharge summaries, and test results.
• Specialist Evaluations – Reports from cardiologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, or other specialists.
• Diagnostic Tests – X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, and other lab work showing measurable evidence of your condition.
• Medication Records – Proof of prescribed medications and their side effects.
• Treatment History – Details of surgeries, therapies, and ongoing treatment plans.
• Mental Health Records – If you have a psychological condition, counseling notes, therapy records, and psychiatric evaluations are important.

The Importance of Consistency

One of the biggest mistakes SSDI applicants in Georgia make is submitting incomplete or inconsistent medical records. To avoid this problem:

• See your doctors regularly – Gaps in treatment may weaken your case.
• Follow prescribed treatments – SSA may deny benefits if you ignore medical advice without a valid reason.
• Keep copies of all records – Don’t rely solely on the SSA to collect everything for you.

Additional Evidence That Can Help

Beyond medical records, the SSA may also consider:

• Statements from Employers – Showing how your condition affected your ability to work.
• Function Reports – Detailing how your daily activities are limited.
• Third-Party Statements – Letters from friends, family, or caregivers who observe your struggles.

These can help demonstrate the real-life impact of your disability.

What If Your Medical Evidence is Not Enough?

In some cases, the SSA may schedule you for a Consultative Examination (CE) with a doctor they choose. This usually happens when:

• Your medical records are incomplete.
• There are gaps in your treatment history.
• Your doctors did not provide enough details about your limitations.

Attending the CE is critical—missing it could result in your application being denied.