Medical Evidence: what to check first
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Identify the medical question | Separate diagnosis, objective findings, symptoms and functional limitations. |
| Build a longitudinal record | A single visit rarely explains the full work impact of a long-term condition. |
| Connect findings to work function | Document limits involving sitting, standing, lifting, attendance, pace, concentration or interaction as relevant. |
| Explain treatment gaps carefully | Cost, insurance, transportation, side effects and access barriers can matter to the record. |
Documents to organize
- treatment notes and provider list
- diagnostic testing and specialist records
- medication history and side effects
- function reports, RFC evidence and work history
Questions to prepare
- Which limitations are actually supported in the records?
- What evidence is missing for the period SSA is reviewing?
- Are symptoms and daily-function reports consistent with treatment records?
- Which SSA medical-evaluation source is relevant to this condition?