What Is a Disability Medical Review?

Whenever Social Security allows a disability claim, the worker's file is assigned a "diary" date of either one, three or seven years depending on the diagnosed medical condition. When the date arrives, the file is reopened for a continuing medical disability review (CDR) of the person's ability to work. A CDR is handled much like the initial case review and is examined for any physical or mental improvement from the worker.

Medical Records

The first thing the CDR requires are up-to-date medical records for the worker with the disability. This includes all records of ongoing treatment, hospitalizations and prescribed drug treament.

Activities Of Daily Living

The CDR requires an up-to-date Activities of Daily Living (ADL) report. This includes the disabled worker's daily routine, hobbies, any issues related to the medical impairment and the worker's personal habits and relationships with family and friends.

The CDR Review

The CDR will compare all evidence from the initial allowance of disability and compare those records with the worker's current condition. The review will look for specific improvements in both physical and mental health and how these affect the person's ability to work now.

Continuing Disability Benefits

If the CDR reveals there is no improvement in the worker's condition, benefits will be continued for another period of one, three or seven years.

Discontinuing Disability Benefits

If the worker's condition does improve, benefits will end. The worker will be referred to the state vocational rehabilitation agency for job training and placement.

References

• SSA: Understanding Supplemental Security Income
• Social Security: Protection From Medical Continuing Disability Reviews