When you apply for Social Security Disability, you need to make sure that you understand the process to give yourself the best possible chance of approval. One of the things that you will likely face is a disability examination with a physician selected by the Social Security Administration. This examination could make or break your final disability determination, so it's important that you are adequately prepared. Here are a few things that you need to know.

Keep Your Conversation Focused On Your Disability

Remember that the care provider you see works directly on behalf of the Social Security Administration. Anything that you say to this care provider can be used as part of your determination. Many people speak about their frustrations about the Social Security Administration and the application process while in this examination, which can reflect negatively on your final report.

Keep all of your comments and feedback focused on the disability, your injury, and how it affects your life. Focus on the effect you've suffered on your ability to work in the career field you're skilled at. Keeping your comments focused will ensure that your physician's assessment is solely about your disability.

Bring Your Current Records

If you have any medical documentation of your disability, including x-rays, lab tests, and other documentation, make sure that you bring all of that documentation with you when you visit the physician for your disability examination. The more information you can provide, the better prepared the physician will be to formulate a decision about your medical condition and its effect on your life.

Be As Truthful And Specific As Possible

During your disability examination, the medical care provider will ask you a series of questions about your injury, the resulting disability, and your prognosis going forward. Answer the questions that you are asked. Don't dodge the questions, or it can result in a disability claim denial for evading the examination.

Provide clear, concise answers that focus solely on the questions asked. If you are asked to perform certain tasks, make sure that you do them to the best of your ability, and clearly explain what you are feeling when you do them. Don't just say that it hurts to do something. Instead, describe the pain you feel. Whether it's sharp pain, throbbing pain, or muscle tightness, be specific about it.

If you suspect that you've been dismissed by your disability examination provider, you need to talk with a Social Security Disability attorney to file an appeal. With the support of an attorney, you have a better chance of a successful appeal because the attorney can navigate the process for you.