NCA Success Story: The Power of an Evidence-Based Argument
Navigating Social Security Disability Insurance for Disabled Adult Children (SSDI-DAC) can be a complex and daunting process for parents or guardians of disabled individuals. However, thorough preparation, expert counsel and strong advocacy can help lead to the best possible outcome.
The parent of an adult disabled individual came to National Care Advisors looking for assistance with getting their child approved for SSDI-DAC benefits. The client was working and already on SSI. The parent had started the process to apply for DAC but was denied. NCA was hired in October of 2024 to advocate during the scheduled December hearing. The assigned Nurse Consultant jumped right in, and with the initiative the parent had taken by collecting medical records, she was able to close the gap, gather the missing pieces and successfully advocate on behalf of the disabled client.
In advance of the hearing, the Nurse Consultant submitted a comprehensive package of medical records, carefully highlighting keywords aligned with SSA’s criteria for proving the client’s diagnoses. This proactive step ensured key details were front and center for the judge’s review. The Nurse Consultant’s arguments for the client’s qualifications were grounded in the SSA’s own definitions and neurologic criteria, which gave her confidence and credibility during the hearing.
Despite initial pushback from the presiding judge and one of the reviewing physicians, the Nurse Consultant was able to reference specific documents in real-time, effectively countering objections and ensuring the client’s eligibility was firmly supported by the evidence. Document formatting issues and procedural nuances also proved challenging during the hearing. However, the Nurse Consultant was able to navigate these obstacles while maintaining the focus on the established objective.
The Nurse Consultant highlighted the client’s history, including struggles with concentration, mood swings, and paranoia, combined with their limited work capacity, painting a compelling picture of their daily challenges. When the judge posed hypothetical employment scenarios, the reviewing physician confirmed that the client’s impairments rendered consistent work impossible.
After two weeks of deliberation, the judge issued her decision by mail, approving the client for full SSDI-DAC benefits. This not only means a higher DAC payment, but the ability to access Medicare in 2 years.
This case serves as a reminder that persistence, evidence-based arguments and a commitment to client-centered advocacy can make a profound difference in securing life-changing benefits.
If you have a client or loved one who could benefit from our benefits advocacy services, contact us today!