Medical evidence

Medical evidence is information gathered by the SSA from a claimant's treating sources. Medical information provides detailed evidence about the existence, severity, and duration of the person's impairment(s). Medical evidence can include all pertinent clinical and laboratory findings (both positive and negative), copies of laboratory results and mental status examinations for claimants with a mental health condition.

The SSA will also require longitudinal clinical records and detailed historical notes discussing the course of the disorder, including treatment and response. For many conditions the SSA will need information about how the condition has progressed over time.

The best medical evidence from doctors is evidence which provides information about the claimant's ability to perform work-related activities. For instance, information which tells the SSA about the physical and mental limitations of the claimant and the reasons for the doctor's opinions, including clinical findings and/or their observations can help the SSA determine if a patient can work on a sustained basis (8 hours/day and 5 days/week).