When you apply for SSI or SSDI, Social Security needs medical evidence. Some providers are called acceptable medical sources. Their records can help prove that you have a medical condition that can be diagnosed through accepted medical methods.
Why does this matter?
Social Security generally needs objective medical evidence from an acceptable medical source to establish that a condition medically exists. This may include examination findings, laboratory tests, X-rays, MRIs, psychological testing, and hearing or vision tests.
A diagnosis or a person's description of symptoms may not be enough by itself.
Who is an acceptable medical source?
Social Security recognizes these licensed or qualified professionals when they provide evidence within their permitted area of practice:
- Medical doctors and osteopathic doctors.
- Licensed or certified psychologists at the independent-practice level.
- Qualified school psychologists for certain intellectual and learning conditions.
- Licensed optometrists for certain vision problems.
- Licensed podiatrists for certain foot or foot-and-ankle conditions.
- Qualified speech-language pathologists for speech or language conditions.
- Licensed audiologists for certain hearing, auditory-processing, and balance conditions.
- Licensed advanced practice registered nurses, such as nurse practitioners.
- Licensed physician assistants.
For audiologists, advanced practice nurses, and physician assistants, the expanded rule generally applies to claims filed on or after March 27, 2017.
What about other healthcare providers?
Records from chiropractors, therapists, counselors, social workers, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and other providers may still help. Their evidence may show symptoms, treatment, progress, daily limitations, and the help a person needs.
Once Social Security establishes that a medical condition exists using evidence from an acceptable medical source, it can consider evidence from many other sources when reviewing severity and daily limitations.
Can other people provide information?
Yes. Social Security may consider statements from family members, friends, caregivers, former employers, teachers, school counselors, daycare workers, clergy, and social-service workers. These people cannot provide a medical diagnosis for Social Security, but they can describe what they have personally seen.
Make the provider's credentials clear
Medical records should clearly show the provider's name, professional title, credentials, role in the care, and connection to the evidence. A signature may also be required.
What should you do before applying?
List every provider who treated or evaluated you. Include the full name, clinic or hospital, specialty, address, telephone number, treatment dates, tests, and medicines. Do not leave someone out because you are unsure whether the person is an acceptable medical source.
This article provides general educational information. It is not legal advice, does not guarantee approval, and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration. For official information, visit SSA.gov.
Keep your evidence organized.
The Disability Command Center App helps you track providers, records, and next steps.
Visit the Disability Command Center App