I am on Social Security disability. When I see my doctors do I share all my symptoms with them every time I go see them? I have chronic pain and it usually is the same; they already know about it. I am concerned that when Social Security reviews me and I don't mention them to doctor, then everything is good, it isn't and I have other health issues with this too. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
By sarah
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When you make an appointment to see your doctor they usually ask what the problem is and that is what you see the doctor for. I am diabetic and when I see my doctor she tells me when to come back. Then when I get in and the nurse is taking my blood pressure, etc., she asks what my problem is and I tell her that I am there for a diabetic follow up. This only happens if there is a different nurse working for that doctor on a given day.
When the doctor asks what the problem is or the reason for the visit AND the reason is the same for the last visit. Just tell him it is for the same thing as last time and nothing has changed as far as you can tell. If he doesn't remember or doesn't have notes to brush up with he will more than likely say, "So refresh my memory" or "Tell me again what the problem is".
As far as I know all doctors keep running notes for each visit and copies of test results in your file so the imformation is there if you ever need it. If you switch doctors you want to make sure to have that file forwarded to your new doctor.
If you see multiple doctors have copies of tests done sent to each doctor that it pertains to. For instance, I see my pulmonologist and he orders a breathing test. I make sure that both he and my GP get copies of the test results but I don't have it sent to my ENT. You also have the right to ask for a copy of all tests results and doctor reports to keep for yourself.
I love the hospital system I am in because all the doctors associated with them keep everything in their patient computer system. If I am ever emergency hospitalized everything they need to know about me, including medications, is there with a click of the button.
Also, when you go up for review for your disability just make sure your case worker knows the names and phone numbers of all your doctors so they can order your files for review. Be sure to ask if they are going to obtain the files or if they want you to get copies of them.
Your doctor should automatically ask about the pain. If you are on pain meds even tylenol or motrin he should ask what your pain level is or you can tell the nurse who will record it when she takes your other vital signs. you absolutely need to make this part of you visit or SSD will think this is not a problem anymore.
Winning your case with SSDI is often a big challenge. Keeping your SSDI means you have to communicate with your doctor your illness has not changed or has even worsened. Yes, each time you see the doctor, complain, complain, complain. And, it is also important that you show him you are not feeling well. We all have some okay days and some bad days. If you tell your doctor your headaches (assumed disability) are terrible, but you are smiling and happy as you are having a better day, this too may get documented.
My wife one day told me you are so ill, yet when you go to the doctor you put on your best face and he never really gets to see just how ill you are! So, lesson learned.
Jim
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