TIP # 1 - GET A MEDICAL SOURCE STATEMENT (PART I)

A "medical source statement" is a form completed by one of your treating doctors.  The form gives a complete but to-the-point evaluation of the functional limitations caused by your impairment.  For example, the MSS will state how much you can lift, how long you can stand and sit, limits on your ability to walk, bend, stoop, push/pull, etc.  A different form is used for mental impairments.

Many people assume that routine medical records will include this information.  It does not.  Others assume that Social Security will ask the doctor for this form.  They do not.  It is up to the claimant or his representative to get this form completed and to submit it to Social Security.

A properly completed Medical Source Statement is, in my view, the single most important piece of evidence that can be provided in a Social Security disability claim.  It increases the odds of an award tremendously, and it can speed up the process quite a bit.  Getting your doctor to agree to complete this form may be a challenge.  But you should always try.

If you have questions about your disability claim, please contact me in Huntsville. (256) 799-0297.