Why You Need a Medical Source Statement?

Individuals filing Social Security disability claims must submit medical evidence showing they have a severe disability that prevents them from working.

A Medical Source Statement (MSS) is a document given to your treating doctor that details the diagnosis, severity, and functional limitations caused by your disability. An MSS form enables your doctor to explain different aspects of your disability. There are two types of MSS forms: Form HA-1151 is used to evaluate physical disabilities, and Form HA-1152 is used to assess mental disabilities. When suitable, these forms can help improve your chances of being approved for disability benefits.

Objective medical evidence is the most reliable medical proof you can submit with your disability claim application. A detailed medical source statement describes the specifics of your symptoms and disability.

How do I obtain a Medical Source Statement?

All SSA forms are available free of charge and can be obtained from Social Security’s website. If you are unable to locate them, call the Law Office of Dan Wimmer at 833-833-2026, and we will provide you with the form we use for our clients.

Who can fill out an MSS?

Social Security rules specify which medical professionals qualify as “acceptable medical sources.” Most qualifying professionals include doctors, psychologists, optometrists, some podiatrists, and certain qualified speech-language pathologists. If you have questions about other medical providers, contact our office at 833-833-2026 for guidance and advice.

Tips for improving your medical source statement.

• MSS forms should be provided to your medical providers who have treated you before.
• Do not assume a medical diagnosis will meet SSA disability rules—Dan will clarify what this means. 833-833-2026.
• SSA often refers you to other specialists; bring your completed MSS form with you.
• Attend every specialist appointment your treating doctor recommends, including those SSA refers you to.
• Tell your doctor about your limitations: “I can only walk 100 feet before resting.” “Every night I have sharp pains that wake me up.” Learn how to explain your symptoms to a doctor by calling 833-833-2026.
• Discuss all of your physical and mental limitations with your doctor and all other relevant medical specialists.
• Discuss each symptom or condition’s frequency and severity with every doctor.

Benefits gained when using medical source statements.

Your doctor’s medical records focus on treatments, not your functional abilities. Often, you’ll need to help your doctors understand how your symptoms affect your daily life and prevent you from doing work-related tasks. A properly completed MSS that goes beyond basic medical records will explain how your symptoms and conditions impact your work capabilities. This is an important point that must be clearly shown on an MSS.