Social Security Consultative Examinations

Why SSA may schedule a CE

SSA or a state disability determination service may arrange a CE if the file does not contain enough current information to decide an issue, or if it cannot obtain needed evidence from existing sources. The appointment notice should explain where and when to go and what kind of examination is planned. An exam may be with a provider you have not seen before; in some circumstances an existing treating source may perform an examination.

What happens at the appointment

The length and scope depend on the type of exam and any tests ordered. Some appointments are brief—often around 15 to 30 minutes—but others take longer. The examiner may ask about symptoms, treatment, daily activities, and work-related abilities, and may perform an examination or test. The provider prepares a report for SSA; a CE usually does not create an ongoing doctor-patient treatment relationship.

Answer accurately and consistently. Do not minimize symptoms, but do not exaggerate or guess. Explain what you can and cannot do, how often a problem occurs, and what happens afterward. The examiner may record observations made during the visit as part of the report.

Before you go

Read the appointment notice carefully, confirm the address and transportation plan, and contact the scheduling office promptly if you need an interpreter, an accommodation, or must reschedule. Ask the clinic in advance whether a support person may accompany you or wait nearby; arrangements can vary by exam and location. Bring photo identification and any items the notice requests.

• Make a short, accurate list of medications, treatment, symptoms, and daily limitations.
• Do not skip the appointment without contacting the scheduling office and SSA/DDS; ask how to reschedule if necessary.
• Tell SSA or DDS if the notice is incorrect or you cannot attend on the scheduled date.

How SSA uses the CE report

The CE report becomes one part of the claim record. SSA considers it together with treating records, test results, symptoms, and other evidence; a CE provider does not make the final disability decision. A treating clinician’s opinion is not automatically given controlling or greater weight. SSA evaluates how well each medical opinion is supported and how consistent it is with the rest of the record, among other factors.

If you want to review the report, ask the disability office handling your claim how to obtain it. At the hearing level, you or your representative can request access to the claim file. If the report contains a factual error or leaves an important limitation unaddressed, tell SSA and provide supporting information through the claim process.