How Treatment Gaps Can Jeopardize Your Right To Social Security Disability Benefits In Florida
If you struggle with long-term disabilities in Florida, you know that visiting doctors and undergoing testing is expensive. As a result, many go without care, which could create problems when filing a Social Security disability claim.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) places significant weight on medical evidence. If your records show long periods without doctor visits, therapy, or medication, they might assume you’re not truly disabled or that your condition has improved. Our experienced Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer explains how to build a strong claim, despite lapses in care.
How the SSA Views Treatment Gaps in Florida Disability Applications
Provided you earned enough work credits and suffer a qualifying condition, Social Security disability benefits can help offset a large portion of your lost income. In reviewing applications, the SSA relies on medical records to not only prove your condition, but also determine the severity and how long it’s lasted. If your file shows you went months or even years without seeing a doctor, it can raise red flags.
Unfortunately, they don’t always consider the reasons why people stop treatment. Here’s what SSA may assume when there are gaps in your records:
- You stopped treatment because your condition got better.
- You’re not taking your health seriously or following medical advice.
- Your condition is not as severe as you originally claimed.
- You could return to work if you simply resumed treatment.
The truth is generally far more complicated. Many people stop getting medical care because they can’t afford it, lack insurance, or have providers who don’t understand their condition.
How to Address Treatment Gaps in a Florida Social Security Disability Claim
Under the SSA’s disability guidelines, you must have medical evidence of a disabling condition to qualify for benefits. If you’ve had trouble staying on top of treatment, don’t panic or assume you’re not eligible.
Be honest and proactive about why care wasn’t continuous. Take these steps to address the issue and protect your claim:
- Document your reasons for missed appointments or lapses in care (such as lack of transportation, cost, or mental health struggles).
- Get back into treatment as soon as possible, even if it’s with a free or low-cost provider.
- Ask your doctor to submit a statement explaining why your condition remained disabling despite the gap in care.
- Include a personal statement or functional report that clearly describes how symptoms have continued to interfere with your daily life.
Your disability claim is about more than just paperwork. It’s about painting an accurate picture of what you live with every day.
To Build a Strong Claim Despite Treatment Gaps, Contact Our Experienced Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer
At Farrell Disability Law, we understand that life doesn’t always follow a perfect schedule, and neither does medical care. If SSA is questioning your claim because of treatment gaps, we can help you explain the full story and submit the right evidence.
Don’t let missing records derail your future. Contact our experienced Florida long-term disability lawyer to request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.
Source:
ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/evidentiary.htm
