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Welcome to Season 1, Episode 40 of Winning Isn't Easy: Navigating Your Social Security Disability Claim. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "The Role of the State Agency Doctor and Why You Might Want to Get an Independent Medical Exam."

Most people don’t realize that the first “medical decision-makers” in a Social Security Disability claim are doctors who never examine you. These state agency physicians review your records from a desk and issue opinions about the severity of your condition, the credibility of your symptoms, and the work you can still do - and their views often carry more weight early on than your own doctor’s. In this episode of Winning Isn’t Easy, Nancy L. Cavey explains the real influence these agency doctors have and why their assessments can shape, or even derail, your claim. She breaks down how their opinions fit into the evaluation process, what happens when their conclusions don’t match your limitations, and the red flags that suggest their review may be incomplete. We also explore Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs): what they are, when they help, and how they can counter flawed agency opinions. Nancy outlines the benefits and risks of obtaining your own consultative exam, what a strong IME should include, and how attorneys use these reports to strengthen the medical evidence on appeal. You’ll learn which medical opinions matter most, how to build a record that reflects your true limitations, and the strategies that ensure the right evidence is working for your claim. Winning isn’t easy, but understanding the role of these doctors can make all the difference. Let’s get started.

In this episode, we'll cover the following topics:

One - Why a State Agency Doctor’s Opinion Can Make or Break Your Social Security Disability Claim

Two - Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) and Their Role in Disability Claims

Three - Should I or My Lawyer Hire a Consultative Doctor in My Social Security Disability Claim?

Whether you're a claimant, or simply seeking valuable insights into the disability claims landscape, this episode provides essential guidance to help you succeed in your journey. Don't miss it.
Listen to Our Sister Podcast:
We have a sister podcast - Winning Isn't Easy: Long-Term Disability ERISA Claims. Give it a listen: https://wiedisabilitypodcast.buzzsprout.com
Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
LINK TO YOUR RIGHTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY: https://mailchi.mp/caveylaw/your-rights-to-social-security-disability-benefits
FREE CONSULT LINK: https://caveylaw.com/contact-us/
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Need help with your Social Security Disability claim? Have questions? Please feel welcome to reach out to use for a FREE consultation. Just mention you listened to our podcast.
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Please remember that the content shared is for informational purposes only, and should not replace personalized legal advice or guidance from qualified professionals.