Disability Evaluation

What Is a Disability Examination?

A disability examination is a medical evaluation used to confirm an injury or impairment when benefits—such as workers’ compensation, Social Security, or private disability insurance—may be available. This exam is a critical part of the verification process required by government agencies or insurance providers to determine eligibility for support.

While a physician’s evaluation is central to the disability exam, the process often involves additional specialists. For example, if your injury is work-related, you may be referred to an occupational medicine specialist or occupational therapist to assess how your condition affects your ability to perform job-related tasks and whether workplace accommodations are needed for your return.

At Allied Health Solutions, we only service people who live in the state of California. We collaborate with a wide network of specialists throughout the Los Angeles area, making referrals quick, convenient, and often located near our Inglewood office.

What Can I Expect During a Disability Medical Exam?

The specific requirements for a disability examination can vary depending on the nature of your injury or condition, as well as the agency requesting the evaluation—such as Social Security, workers’ compensation, or a private insurer. Each case may involve different tests, documentation, or follow-up procedures.

As your primary care provider (PCP) or alternate PCP, the healthcare professionals at Allied Health Solutions begin by documenting your chief complaint and medical history, followed by a physical examination. From there, we develop an assessment and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

We do offer telehealth services for your convenience; however, your provider will request that you come into the office for a full in-person examination. This step is essential to provide a complete and accurate evaluation in support of your disability claim.

Depending on your diagnosis, and because we only service people who live in the state of California, we may refer you to specialists or therapists to support your recovery. For example:

• If you're dealing with job-related stress, anxiety, depression, or emotional fatigue, your provider may recommend starting mental health therapy with a psychiatrist or psychotherapist. These professionals can help improve your well-being by developing effective coping strategies.

• If you’re experiencing physical pain or functional limitations, you may be referred to an orthopedist, rheumatologist, or physical therapist to begin treatment that supports your physical recovery and mobility.

Our primary goal is to help you heal and return to work safely and as soon as possible. We understand that being out of work can lead to significant financial hardship and emotional stress, and we take a comprehensive approach to address both your physical and mental health.

Please note: while many agencies accept an evaluation from your regular PCP, some may require that you see a specific contracted or independent third-party physician. For instance, even if Dr. Pierson is your current provider, certain programs might request an exam through their own network.

Does My Doctor Decide If I Am Disabled?

No. Your treating physician’s role is to provide factual information related to your disability claim, based on their observations, test results, and other relevant medical evidence.

For disability claims such as those through the Social Security Administration or California’s Employment Development Department (edd.ca.gov) you may be required to undergo an exam by a consultative physician appointed by the agency.

It’s important to understand that your healthcare provider does not have detailed knowledge about the specific funds, benefits, or claim processes administered by the EDD. You are responsible for contacting the EDD directly, creating an account on their website, and filing your claim under State Disability Insurance (SDI).

Once you file your claim, you must provide your provider with the receipt or DI (Disability Insurance) number so they can submit the necessary medical documentation on your behalf.

Ultimately, it is the claims examiner who reviews all medical evidence and makes the final determination regarding your disability status.

Additional Information

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) administers the Unemployment Insurance (UI) and State Disability Insurance (SDI) programs. SDI also covers Disability Insurance (DI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), and Family Care Leave (FCL).

At our clinic, we are experienced in handling Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) documentation and processing. We can also assist you with filing a Workers’ Compensation claim or applying for unemployment benefits if you do not qualify for or require State Disability benefits.

If you do not have health insurance, our staff can guide you to resources to help you apply for coverage. Having health insurance often makes the recovery process smoother and allows us to better support and expedite your return to work.

Allied Health Solutions Process: 

Step 1: From the list below complete the General Patient Intake Form.

Step 2: From the list below complete the Disability Evaluation Form and provide detailed answers on the questionnaire. Complete the PHQ 9 and GAD 7 forms

Step 3: Review How to File a New Claim for State Disability Benefits

Step 4: Register and file a new claim with edd.ca.gov

Step 5: Provide our staff with Registration Number (R Number)

The State Disability- Patient Guidelines provide important information about our office process. 

Patient Forms/Additional Resources:

New Patient (Disability Evaluation)