An Annals of Internal Medicine study suggests that 20 percent of doctors’ offices are inaccessible to people with disabilities. Researchers contacted facilities in Boston, Dallas, Houston and Portland, and gave them a fictitious patient, indicating that a wheelchair would be needed to transport the patient. They also said that “he or she” would be unable to transfer without assistance from a chair to an exam table.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), doctors must provide “full and equal access to their health care services and facilities.” The study found that 22 percent of the doctor offices researchers called could not accommodate a handicap patient.
This information is concerning for people who may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. In order to obtain benefits, a person may be required to schedule a consultative examination with a doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist. Only in cases of severe disabilities are benefits awarded after an initial application. In most cases, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will attempt to get medical records from treating doctors and hospitals; being able to access a provider’s office is important.
If you have questions about your application for disability benefits, do not take chances. Contact a Tulsa Social Security Disability attorney for a free evaluation of your case to discuss your situation. You may also reach us at (918) 265-1404.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability attorneys
