Very happy, found out a few days ago I got approved for SSDI on the first attempt !
I do have additional health problems other than PsA ( autonomic nerve dysfunction, small nerve fiber neuropathy, GI dysmotility, plus others) however PsA is the main issue. I live in PA, was told 70% get rejected the first time. Thought I would give some input as to what I did, have no idea if any of these had an affect on my approval, but who knows !
1. For the past 4 years, had kept a notebook with dates of visits , tests and results. This the most helpful thing I could have done, it made completing the lengthy application easier,
2. Informed each of my specialists I was applying and asked if they were willing to support me. Out of eight, all but one said yes. Do not try to beg, either they will or won't !
3. Kept in constant communication with my "adjudicator" , the decision maker. I was polite, yet aggressive at the same time. Stand up for yourself, question what you do not understand and document every conversation. I took notes during each conversation I had with her, then wrote it into a notebook as soon as I got off the phone. There were numerous times she said something that contradicted what I was told a week prior. When I would tell I thought she was mistaken, all of a sudden I was told, yes I was correct. Not saying it's intentional, however she appeared confused frequently, maybe to high of a case load ? I can't say, but stick with what you know is correct and don't be afraid to say it.
4. Had to see one of the physicians they appointed, the reason being " We don't have enough information for your file". My PCP sent them over 100 pages, Johns Hopkins faxed 345 pages and I sent them about 120 pages of files. I'm sure they had plenty to go on, but I went to the appointment without questioning, a quick visit would not be worth questioning. The physician started out "cold" but once we started he either got "warmer" or I became less nervous. So just answer the questions, be direct and honest and hopefully it will be fine. He turned out to be a nice person. I thanked him for his time and he told me he rarely gets any compliments or even a thank you. I was not trying to butter him up, he genuinely deserved a thank you. My issues can be complex and listened to them all. I was frustrated when I found out I had to go, but it really wasn't bad.
So I guess what I am saying is, be honest when you complete the initial forms, treat the people at SSA the way you hope they will treat you and most importantly...DO NOT GIVE UP ! It was extremely frustrating when I was told " No, we didn't get that" and I had to dig through my files and send it again and again ! I went through 4 ink cartridges, no kidding. The Staples fax machine and I became good friends. There are way to many forms, forms and more forms. I don't wish to see paperwork for a long time. However, I'm sure there's more to come..ugh.
But when I called to check on the status and was told it just was approved that same day, it was like Christmas, my birthday and every other awesome day rolled into one! Hang in there, read everything you can on the subject, be a smart self advocate and never say forget it. I was tempted more than once to do that, the stress level can push your limits. But reach hard, find more strength and you will do it !
When my sons were little, one of our favorite books was about a tiny mouse trying to push an elephant up a hill..." If at first you don't succeed, don't cry, cry, cry...,try, try, try "! That little mouse story was my mantra for the past 3.5 months !
I hope anyone trying for disability gets the results I did, you deserve it and if at first you don't succeed.....! Good luck to all and hope life treats you well.