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How is hearing loss proved for disability claims?

On Behalf of | Oct 16, 2015 | Firm News, Social Security Disability | 0 comments

In order to help those who suffer from a wide array of disabilities, disability benefits could be filed for. While the Social Security Disability coverage can be broad, it is important to note that there are very strict rules and regulations that apply to each type of disability. By learning more about the Social Security Administration or SSA and how they define specific disabilities, we hope our readers will feel more confident about whether they may qualify for benefits. However, if an individual is having trouble staying employed because of his or her disability, then he or she may want to consider speaking with an attorney.

With regards to hearing loss and how it is analyzed in the Social Security disability system, the process includes various steps. Under the disability system, it is always necessary to provide evidence of one’s disability. When it comes to hearing loss, the SSA typically requires an applicant to undergo a complete otologic exam with an audiometric test to follow within two months of the otologic exam. This will help the SSA determine whether an applicant’s severity of hearing loss qualifies him or her for disability benefits.

There are also guidelines for who can perform these examinations. Generally speaking, a licensed physician must conduct the otologic examination. An otolaryngologis or an audiologist must conduct the audiometric test. Tests conducted by those deemed by the SSA to be unprofessional may be disqualified, causing either delay or denial of benefits.

Other documentation may be submitted as proof of hearing loss and disability, but this examination and test are pivotal. With this in mind, those considering seeking disability benefits for hearing loss should be sure to be diligent when getting their tests and examinations, and may want to discuss the matter with an attorney to better understand the process.

Source: Social Security Administration, “2.00 Special Senses And Speech – Adult,” accessed on Oct. 12, 2015

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