The Benefits of a Medical Expert Witness in a Social Security Hearing
At a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits claim hearing, the services of an SSA-provided Medical Expert (or ME) are often called upon. Typically, this individual is a retired physician who comes in to summarize your medical records so that the Judge will have a better understanding of what is going on in your case.
For example, an ME can help if the medical records supporting your disability claim are voluminous and difficult for someone without medical training to understand. Much like an expert witness at a criminal court proceeding, the ME can greatly assist the judge or adjudicator by distilling these records and focusing on the most important findings.
Before presenting their findings, the ME is required by law to verify their medical credentials. The attorney for the claimant is allowed and encouraged to ask questions about such pertinent factors as education, skills, training and experience in a specific medical field. An ME can be instrumental in helping a claimant and their attorney properly frame the specifics of a disabling medical or psychological condition.
But do not fear the ME witness, as they often benefit you. In other words, if your disability is true and real, and if the medical records reflect this, then the Medical Expert will likely notice this and will communicate this to the Judge, thereby helping your claim. If, however, you are malingering (or exaggerating your condition), the Medical Expert may be your worst nightmare.