Many folks applying for disability benefits with physical impairments require the usage of an assistive device, commonly a cane or a walker. Assistive devices are strong considerations in a Social Security disability claim, both medically and vocationally. However, the medical documentation of usage of an assistive device can be sometimes lacking and thus hurts credibility in your disability claim.
Primarily, Social Security is usually looking for the terms “diagnosed medical equipment” (“DME”) or “medically necessary” cane and walkers. I have had many cases where it is clear from the individual’s physical impairments that a cane or walker would be considered medically necessary, however, many times these do not always appear on your medical records. For example, if you are using an assistive device or other DME, but you previously had a family member who had one, or you figured you would purchase one yourself secondhand, it may not always be in your records that you are using this cane. If you tell Social Security you are always using an assistive device, but there is never medical documentation showing this, it will hurt your credibility.
Similarly, in many of those same cases, the primary care doctor may state to you that use of the assistive device is encouraged, but never actually document that “word of mouth” conversation. It is key to have your doctors aware of your assistive device usage as part of your medical documentation and treatment.
If you are in a similar situation, call Keller & Keller’s Social Security Disability department today to receive a free consultation, and find out how you can get your assistive device deemed medically necessary.
