Once I Decided To File For Social Security Disability In Texas, I Talked To My PCP. She Told Me She Won’t Help Patients Apply For Disability Because She Doesn’t Agree With The Program. If I Need A New Doctor, How Can I Establish Him Or Her As My Treating Physician?

It was smart of you to speak to your doctor about Social Security disability before you started the application process. Some doctors hold negative beliefs about the program and it’s better to know about the problem in advance so there are no unpleasant surprises further down the road.

This is a difficult situation and you might want some in-person advice before taking the next step. A skilled Bellaire disability attorney will have dealt with uncooperative doctors before. He or she might be able to talk your doctor through some of her reservations—at the very least, you’ll have an informed opinion if the situation is truly unworkable.

What does the SSA look for in a treating physician?

• Time. One of the largest assets to your case is the opinion of a doctor who has treated you for many years; changing doctors before applying for disability benefits is something that should only be done under extreme circumstances.
• Experience. The doctor should have access to your full medical history as well as up-to-date records about your medical condition.
• Cooperation. Your treating physician will need to fill out forms and perform tests as documentation for your case.

Need to know more? Don’t wait another day—talk with an experienced Houston disability benefits attorney at Morgan & Weisbrod. Call toll-free (214) 373-3761 or fill out the online form.

by Paul B. Burkhalter
Managing Partner of Morgan & Weisbrod, Board Certified in Social Security Disability Law.

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