We’ve all heard those medication ads on TV, right? With that looooong list of side effects? Sometimes it even feels as if the side effects are WORSE than the condition it’s trying to treat!😬 I’ve seen some pretty awful situations when my clients didn’t feel comfortable taking the medicine that their doctor subscribed.
So here’s the big question:
“Will They Deny My Claim if I Don’t Take the Medicine My Doctor Gave Me?”
This can get a little complicated, and there’s always going to be an exception somewhere! But we’re going to keep it simple for now, and I’m always here to answer questions specific to you!
👉Will the medicine restore full function?
One thing that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will want to know is how effective the treatment plan is. Some medications can actually restore functional ability. For example, while an inhaler won’t cure an individual, it can still greatly improve a person’s breathing and overall capacity to work.
But unfortunately, most medications do not have such a large impact on our ability to work. A big example is pain medication. Even though the pain is being masked, the medication isn’t necessarily doing much to improve bodily function–especially in the case of bone or joint damage.
If you don’t feel that a medication or treatment plan is going to restore your ability to work, it’s critically important that you communicate your reasons. Have an open conversation with your doctors and your disability representative. Your care team will help improve the credibility of your case and help the SSA understand your limitations and abilities.
👉 Do they have the WHOLE picture?
If you’ve been keeping up with my YouTube channel, then you probably already know how strongly I advise against under-complaining. If something is genuinely wrong with your medication, then you NEED to tell your doctor so that your symptoms will be on your medical records. The last thing you want is for the SSA to think that you’re being non-compliant when there’s actually something wrong with your treatment plan.
Common Drugs with Bad Side Effects
Gabapentin: A common drug to treat nerve pain
- Can Cause: Debilitating fatigue
Lyrica: Treats nerve damage caused by diabetes
- Can Cause: Weight gain and water retention
Psychiatric Medication: Reduces the symptoms of mental health complications
- Can Cause: Hallucinations, suicidal ideation, disassociation
If your prescribed treatment plan is causing even more complications, report your conditions AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
👉 Are there alternative options?
While you might opt out of pain medication, it is essential you talk with your doctor about the things you are doing to manage symptoms. Generally speaking, taking proactive measures for your health translates positively in your case.
Suppose a patient is suffering from frequent pain, for example. In that case, some alternative options to medication include heating pads, hot showers or baths, ice packs, elevating feet, or laying down during the day for a little symptom relief. Make sure to share these strategies with your doctor. This helps the adjudicator know you are proactive in symptom management and (more importantly) that your condition is a central concern in how you approach your daily routines.
Suggested Video: Will You Lose Your Disability Benefits if You Refuse Surgery?
Here’s How Our Disability Representative Can Help!
As a local representative, our disability advocate will know your case from start to finish. We’ll be involved every step of the way, and you’ll speak to the same person every time. Our goal is to make your case the easiest one to approve.
For that reason, we don’t just fine-tune what you have and put it together in a cut-and-paste format. We’ll meticulously review your case and provide feedback on the weak areas of your application and offer clear directions on what information we need and where you can find them.
Whether you’ve already begun the application process or are just getting started, we encourage you to schedule a FREE consultation to help determine the best strategy for your case. Our mission is to eliminate the red tape and mountains of paperwork so you can focus on your health and the things that matter.
⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! 📱
Let’s Connect!
✅ Facebook: Add Me!
✅ Instagram: Join the Fun
✅ Twitter: Follow
✅ YouTube: Subscribe Here
The Disability Process 101:
- Programs available
- How to apply or appeal
- How disability is determined
- Tips for how to build a strong case
Contact Us:
📞 417-812-6698
UR Disability Rep
1304 E Kingsley St
Springfield, MO 65804
👌 URDisabilityrep.com: I want to be YOUR disability rep
