How Your Doctor Can Help You Win Your Disability Claim

Written by: Gayle Conner, Attorney at LaBovick Law Group

Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a complex and challenging process. Many individuals in Florida face significant hurdles when trying to navigate the system. One of the most crucial aspects of a successful claim is the support of your doctor. But can my doctor help me get disability? The answer is a resounding yes! Your doctor’s opinion, medical records, and ongoing support can significantly impact your chances of approval. This guide, brought to you by LaBovick Law Group, a leading disability law firm in Florida, will explain how to work with your doctor to build a strong case for disability benefits.

At LaBovick Law Group, we understand the challenges you face when seeking disability benefits. Our experienced Florida Social Security Disability Attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to clients throughout Florida. We know that a strong medical record is essential to a successful claim, and we work closely with our clients to ensure that their doctors provide the necessary documentation and support.

Winning Doctor Support in Disability Claims

As you prepare your application for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits, you will quickly realize how important your doctors’ opinions are to your claim. To gain stronger doctor support for your claim, focus on building a robust medical record and actively communicating with your doctor about your condition and limitations. To build a strong case for SSD benefits, you should see your doctors regularly before you file your application and throughout the course of your disability claim. Regular appointments demonstrate the ongoing nature of your medical issues.

👉 You can find detailed information and official forms for the application process on the Social Security Administration’s disability benefits page.

Think of building your medical record as building a house. Each doctor’s visit, each test, each therapy session is a brick in that house. The stronger the house, the more likely it is to withstand the storm. In the context of a disability claim, the “storm” is the scrutiny of the Social Security Administration. The stronger your medical record, the more likely it is to withstand that scrutiny and lead to a favorable outcome.

Social Security gives the most weight to medical opinions that are supported by and consistent with the medical evidence as a whole. The persuasiveness of any medical source’s opinion—whether that source is a treating, examining, or record-reviewing source—depends significantly upon whether such opinion: (1) is supported by objective medical evidence and the source’s own explanation of the opinion, and (2) is consistent with other evidence provided by medical sources of record 20 CFR § 404.1520c(c)

What does “objective medical evidence” mean? This refers to medical findings that are based on tests and examinations, rather than just your subjective reports of symptoms. Examples of objective medical evidence include:

• X-rays showing arthritis or fractures
• MRI scans showing herniated discs or spinal stenosis
• Blood tests showing abnormalities
• Nerve conduction studies showing nerve damage
• Cognitive tests showing memory or concentration problems

If the Social Security Administration (SSA) has your physician’s opinion that you are unable to work, you should have a strong case. If you do not have your physician’s support, or they are “silent” on the issue of your disability, your claim will likely be compromised. This is not to say cannot win your case, but the mountain you must climb will be steeper without a physician’s support. While SSA makes the final decision, a detailed statement from your treating physician can be the evidence that tips the scales in your favor. A physician who provides a brief statement indicating that one of his patients is disabled is providing very little benefit at a Social Security hearing. This is because much more is needed for a favorable ruling to be issued.

Think of your doctor as your advocate. They are the ones who can translate your subjective experiences into objective medical findings. They are the ones who can explain to the SSA how your medical condition prevents you from working. But they can only do this if you provide them with the necessary information and support.

What Kind of Doctor Can Help You Get Disability?

Many people wonder, what kind of doctor can put you on disability? While no doctor can “put” you on disability (only the SSA can approve your claim), certain doctors can be more helpful than others. Generally, a specialist who treats your specific condition will be the most valuable. For example:

• Orthopedic Surgeon: If you have back problems or joint issues. An orthopedic surgeon can provide detailed assessments of your musculoskeletal system, document limitations in movement, and offer opinions on your ability to perform physical tasks. They can also provide evidence of arthritis, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and other conditions that can qualify for disability. They may conduct physical exams, order X-rays or MRIs, and provide opinions on your ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, and perform other physical activities.
• Neurologist: If you have a neurological condition like epilepsy or multiple sclerosis. Neurologists can conduct tests to assess brain function, nerve damage, and cognitive abilities. They can document seizures, tremors, memory problems, and other neurological symptoms that can impact your ability to work. These tests may include EEGs, EMGs, nerve conduction studies, and cognitive assessments.
• Psychiatrist or Psychologist: If you have a mental health condition like depression or anxiety. Mental health conditions can be just as disabling as physical conditions. A psychiatrist or psychologist can provide evaluations, therapy, and medication management to help you cope with your symptoms. They can also document the impact of your condition on your ability to concentrate, interact with others, and maintain a consistent work schedule. They may use diagnostic tools like the DSM-5 and conduct interviews to assess your mental state.
• Cardiologist: If you have a heart condition. Cardiologists can assess heart function, document chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, and provide opinions on your ability to perform physical activities. Heart conditions can significantly limit your ability to work, especially if your job involves physical exertion. Tests that a cardiologist might conduct include EKGs, echocardiograms, and stress tests.

A primary care physician can also be helpful, especially if they have a long-standing relationship with you and are familiar with your medical history. They can provide a general overview of your medical condition and coordinate your care with specialists. The most important thing is to have a doctor who is willing to document your limitations and provide a clear medical opinion about your ability to work.

It’s also important to remember that the SSA will consider all of your medical evidence, not just the opinions of your doctors. This includes medical records from hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers. It’s important to gather all of your medical records and submit them to the SSA as part of your disability application.

Explaining Your Pain, Symptoms, Medication Side Effects, and Other Limitations in Detail

Most people do not describe their pain, symptoms, and how they affect their ability to function in adequate detail. The more specific you are when you describe your pain and symptoms, the more helpful it is for your claim. Give your doctors/medical providers all the details about your pain, symptoms, and limitations. Make sure your description gives specifics about where, how much, how often, and what activities the symptoms limit you from doing. As you continue treatment, you should also note any changes in your pain or symptoms to your doctor. Report all of your symptoms, even if it feels like you are repeating yourself.

For example, instead of saying “I have back pain,” say “I have sharp, stabbing pain in my lower back that radiates down my left leg. The pain is worse when I sit or stand for long periods, and it makes it difficult to lift more than 10 pounds. I also experience numbness and tingling in my toes. The pain is so severe that I have trouble sleeping at night, and I have to take pain medication several times a day.”

Similarly, when describing medication side effects, be specific about how they impact you. Instead of saying “My medication makes me tired,” say “My medication makes me so drowsy that I have difficulty concentrating and often fall asleep during the day. I also experience dizziness and nausea, which makes it difficult to perform simple tasks. I have to be very careful when driving because I sometimes feel lightheaded.”

The more detail you provide, the better equipped your doctor will be to understand your condition and provide a comprehensive medical opinion to the SSA. Don’t be afraid to be honest and open with your doctor about your symptoms and limitations. They are there to help you, and they can only do so if they have a clear understanding of your condition.

How Do I Ask My Doctor to Write a Letter for Disability?

Many applicants are unsure how do I ask my doctor to write a letter for disability? It’s important to be prepared and communicate effectively with your doctor. Here are some tips:

• Schedule an Appointment: Make a dedicated appointment to discuss your disability claim. Don’t try to squeeze it in during a routine checkup. Schedule a longer appointment if possible, so you have enough time to discuss your condition and limitations in detail.
• Be Prepared: Bring a list of your limitations, symptoms, and how they affect your ability to work. Be specific and provide examples. Write down everything you would want a medical doctor to know.
• Provide Documentation: If possible, bring any relevant medical records or forms that your doctor needs to complete. You can find these forms on the Social Security Administration’s website. You can also bring a blank medical source statement for your doctor to fill out.
• 👉 You can also locate your nearest SSA office using the SSA Local Office Locator to handle parts of your application in person.
• Be Clear and Concise: Clearly explain that you are applying for disability and need their support. Let them know that their opinion is crucial to your claim. Emphasize that you want them to just document what is going on; that it is their medical expertise that you want documented.
• Ask for a Medical Source Statement: This is a detailed report that outlines your condition, limitations, and prognosis. It should include specific information about your ability to perform work-related activities, such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, and concentrating.

Here is how to communicate this to your doctor. “Doctor, I need to get Social Security disability benefits, but I need your help. The SSA really wants to know about my diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, so I need you to be as detailed as possible in the report. Can you help me with this, or do I need to find someone else?” Be polite, but firm. You need their help, and they need to understand that.

Remember, your doctor’s opinion is just one piece of the puzzle. The SSA will also consider your medical records, your testimony, and any other evidence you submit. But a strong medical opinion from your doctor can significantly increase your chances of success.

Writing Down Your Limitations for Your Doctor

When you do get an appointment scheduled, make the most of the opportunity. Doctors are busy, so you should be prepared with specific details that you want to discuss. Before you attend the appointment, write down the name of each medical problem. After each one, describe specific ways the condition limits your ability to function normally, using real-life examples. Describe your symptoms, limitations, and how you cannot work as a result. Provide examples of tasks are difficult or impossible for you to perform.

Think about a typical workday and how your medical condition would affect your ability to perform different tasks. For example:

• Sitting: Can you sit for extended periods without experiencing pain or discomfort? How often do you need to get up and move around?
• Standing: Can you stand for long periods without experiencing pain or fatigue? How often do you need to sit down?
• Walking: Can you walk for long distances without experiencing pain or shortness of breath? How often do you need to rest?
• Lifting: How much weight can you lift safely and repeatedly? Can you lift objects above your head?
• Carrying: How much weight can you carry and for how long?
• Concentrating: Can you focus your attention for extended periods? Are you easily distracted?
• Remembering: Can you remember instructions and tasks? Do you have trouble with short-term memory?

By providing your doctor with specific examples of how your condition affects your ability to perform these tasks, you can help them understand the true impact of your disability on your ability to work.

Describing Your Physical Limitations

Be very specific and detailed in describing your limitations. If your limitations are physical, be sure to mention how much weight you can lift and carry, as well as how long you can stand and walk before needing to take a break. Include any difficulties you have using your arms, hands, and fingers. If you have difficulty buttoning a shirt or tying your shoes due to carpal tunnel syndrome, that signals to Social Security that you have difficulty with fine motor skills—hand movements that are key for most jobs.

Use quantifiable examples such as, “After walking 5 minutes, my pain increases to an 8 out of 10, and I need to sit for at least 15 minutes.” Avoid vague language such as, “I get tired easily.” Describe how your physical limitations limit your ability to perform tasks like washing dishes, bathing, dressing, or cleaning. Use a pain scale (e.g., 1-10) to describe your pain and how it fluctuates throughout the day.

Also, explain both good and bad days and how your medical condition affects your sleeping patterns. Describe any changes in your sleeping patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, or feeling excessively tired. And explain what causes these difficulties, such as pain, medication side effects, or other factors. Remember, the more detail your doctor can provide, the more effective his or her opinion will be for your claim.

Here is another example. “Doctor, I’m having a lot of difficulty sleeping and this makes me even more tired at work. Some nights I can’t fall asleep at all, and other nights I will wake up constantly throughout the night. Can you help me with this? What do you think is going on?”

It’s also important to mention any other symptoms you are experiencing, such as:

• Fatigue
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Vision problems
• Hearing problems

These symptoms can all contribute to your overall disability and should be documented in your medical records.

Describing Your Mental/Cognitive Limitations

If you have a mental disorder, describe how well you maintain relationships, respond appropriately to other individuals, participate in social activities, and follow instructions. Note any side effects you have from medications, such as feeling tired. If your condition requires medication that makes you dizzy and drowsy, you can explain to the doctor that it is putting your life and the lives of others in danger every time you climb into the cab of the forklift you operate.

Providing real-world examples of how your condition affects these areas in your day-to-day life can be compelling evidence. For instance, if anxiety causes you to leave work early frequently, mention that. If depression prevents you from getting out of bed for days, include that detail in your statements.

Be clear with your doctor about any increase in the severity of your symptoms and whether the current course of treatment is working for you. These types of discussions will not only help you receive the treatment you need for your disabling condition but will also assist your doctor in providing a clear and comprehensive statement to the SSA regarding your disabilities

Consider discussing the following with your doctor:

• Difficulty concentrating or focusing
• Problems with memory or recall
• Difficulty understanding or following instructions
• Trouble interacting with others
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Depression or mood swings
• Difficulty managing stress

These limitations can all significantly impact your ability to perform work-related tasks and should be documented in your medical records.

Tracking Your Symptoms

A journal or app can be a valuable tool for documenting symptoms and daily activities when applying for Social Security disability benefits. A detailed record of symptoms, pain levels, medications, and how your condition affects your daily life can strengthen your claim.

We strongly encourage our clients to keep a track of their symptoms, especially those symptoms that are intermittent such as seizures, muscle spasms or panic attacks. If you have chronic pain, you can take note each day of how you rate your pain. If you are experiencing mental health symptoms, your journal might be where you keep track of your moods or side effects of your medication. This information can give your doctor deep insight into your daily struggle and help refine their opinions.

Knowing more about the frequency, duration and intensity of your symptoms will give your provider insight into your condition that could help your treatment. In addition, your doctor can add your report to your medical record so it is submitted to the SSA when your records are requested. Sometimes, we even submit the journal in its entirety as part of your case.

Several symptom tracker apps can help patients monitor and manage their symptoms.

• Migraine Monitor is a free app that can help people track their symptoms, identify their triggers, and manage their pain. People can also input the date of the migraine episode and how frequently they experience symptoms of this condition. Tracking migraine triggers and sharing these data with a doctor can help them diagnose the type of migraine a person has and determine the best course of treatment.
• Bearable Symptom Tracker is a free app designed to help individuals monitor and manage various aspects of their health, including mood, symptoms, habits, and lifestyle factors. It’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with chronic conditions, mental health issues, or complex health profiles.
• Epsy app is a free digital health platform for individuals living with epilepsy, helping them track seizures, auras, triggers, manage medications, and connect with their healthcare team.

Get a Medical Source Statement

One of the strongest pieces of medical evidence you can submit to the Social Security Administration when applying for SSD benefits is a medical source statement from one of your medical providers.

A medical source statement is a document completed by a medical professional (like a doctor or therapist) that details a person’s medical condition and how it impacts their ability to work. It strengthens a disability claim by providing the SSA with a clear understanding of how a person’s condition affects their ability to work. It should include details that explain how your condition impacts your daily activities, like whether you can sit for long periods, lift heavy objects, or perform tasks without pain.

A medical source statement is a powerful tool that can significantly increase your chances of a successful SSDI application by helping the SSA understand the true impact of your disability in re: your work capacity. While navigating the SSDI process can be challenging, the attorneys at LaBovick Law Group can help strengthen your application.

A Medical Source Statement will typically include information such as:

• Diagnoses
• Symptoms
• Treatments
• Medications
• Functional limitations
• Prognosis

It’s important to ensure that the medical source statement is complete, accurate, and consistent with your other medical records.

What If My Doctor Is Not Supportive?

It can be disheartening if your doctor is not supportive of your disability claim. This can happen for a variety of reasons. They may not be familiar with the disability process, they may not believe your condition is severe enough to warrant disability, or they may simply be unwilling to fill out the necessary paperwork.

If you find yourself in this situation, here are some steps you can take:

• Talk to Your Doctor: Try to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor about your concerns. Explain why you believe you are unable to work and how their support can help your claim. Explain that you do not need their approval, but you need them to fill out paperwork completely and honestly. Ask if another doctor in the practice has more experience.
• Get a Second Opinion: Seek out a second opinion from another doctor who is more familiar with disability claims. You may need to specifically seek out a disability doctor. Ask around for recommendations, or search online for “disability doctors near me.”
• Request an RFC Form: Ask your doctor to complete a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form. This form assesses your physical and mental limitations and can be used as evidence in your disability claim. This form is critical even if your doctor is unsupportive.

Remember, you have the right to seek medical care from any doctor you choose. If you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving from your current doctor, don’t hesitate to find another doctor who is more supportive of your disability claim.

What If I Don’t Have A Doctor?

It is generally difficult to get approved for Social Security Disability benefits without a doctor, because the SSA relies heavily on the medical evidence to determine disability. But even without a consistent doctor, a medical expert can really help your case. A medical expert can review the evidence to give you a good chance of winning your case.

If you do not have a regular doctor, you should:

• Seek medical care from a variety of providers
• Compile all of your medical records and provide all the records to a medical expert

FAQ: Can My Doctor Help Me Get Disability?

Disclaimer: This article, written by Gayle Conner, Attorney at LaBovick Law Group, provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation.

Contact LaBovick Law Group today for a free consultation!

About the Author: Gayle Conner is an attorney at LaBovick Law Group, specializing in Social Security Disability claims. With years of experience helping clients navigate the complex disability process, Gayle is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.