Many people refer to a CE as a Social Security medical exam.

When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits you may receive a letter in the mail informing you that you have an appointment for a consultative examination (CE). Many people refer to a CE as a Social Security medical exam.

When the disability examiner is reviewing your medical records, he/she might require you to attend a CE if your medical records are incomplete, out of date or if they do not address all of the impairments listed on your disability application. The purpose of a CE is not to provide medical treatment; the purpose of a CE is to provide an updated medical record for your disability. The doctor (or psychiatrist or psychologist) who performs the exam is not an employee of the Social Security Administration (SSA) or Disability Determination Services (DDS); however, they are contracted by the SSA to perform these exams.

If you are scheduled for a CE, make sure you go. Failure to attend your CE will slow down the processing of your case and can potentially result in a denial of your case. If you are not able to make your scheduled appointment, let your disability examiner or the hearing office know that you’re not able to make it. It does not look good if you just decide not to show up to your appointment without letting anyone know.

If you have been denied disability benefits, or if you have questions about applying for disability benefits, talk with a disability attorney. Click here to schedule a free consultation with an experienced disability attorney in the San Diego, Los Angeles, and Riverside areas, serving all of Southern California.