Understanding the Consultative Examination (CE) and the Disability Determination Evaluation (DDE)

To corroborate the medical evidence presented at a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits claim hearing, applicants may be referred to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or regular physician for an independent Consultative Examination (CE). No treatment is involved, and all claimants are permitted to read the report, officially known as a Disability Determination Evaluation (DDE), before it is submitted back to the judge.

In cases where a claimant is attesting to suffering from multiple medical or psychological conditions, the judge may order separate CEs. The Social Security Administration pays for the Consultative Examinations, and should they be ordered, the claimant is required by law to participate. A CE is not in any way indicative of a denial of disability benefits, but should a claimant (for whatever reason) choose not to comply with the additional examination directives, benefits are likely to be denied.

To make its final determination, the SSA may ask for additional documentation such as lab tests, clinical findings, and specialist’s diagnosis. Again, during the CEs, no treatment will be offered or given to the claimant. The CE process is simply one of the tools used by a judge or adjudicator to ensure that they can make as well-informed a decision about your case as possible.