Social Security Expands Fast-Track Disability Processes

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Social Security Expands Fast-Track Disability Processes

http://www.ssa.gov/pressoffice/pr/disability-fast-track-pr.html

More than 100,000 Disabled Applicants Get Quick Decisions

J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, announced today

that improvements to the agency's computer modeling system have

increased the number of claimants receiving expedited approvals for

disability benefits. Social Security's two-track system -- the Quick

Disability Determination (QDD) process and Compassionate Allowances --

is now fast-tracking about 4 percent of all disability cases, a

sharp increase from the 2.7 percent of cases fast-tracked last year.

" In practical terms, this means that this year 100,000 to 125,000

disabled Americans -- those with the most severe disabilities -- will

be approved for benefits in about 10 days instead of waiting the

three to four months it typically takes for an initial decision, "

Commissioner Astrue said. " These initiatives are truly a lifeline

for those who need it most. "

Under QDD, a predictive computer model analyzes specific data within

the electronic file to identify cases where there is a high potential

that the claimant is disabled and where Social Security can quickly

obtain evidence of the person's allegations. Through Compassionate

Allowances, Social Security expedites the processing of disability

claims for applicants with medical conditions so severe that their

conditions by definition meet Social Security's standards. These

fast-track systems increase the efficiency of the disability process

and also help free up resources so the agency can better cope with an

increase of about 250,000 cases resulting from the current economic

downturn.

" During these tough economic times, getting Social Security and

Supplemental Security Income disability benefits quickly to Americans

who are unable to work helps them and strengthens our economy. For

SSI recipients, expedited approvals also ensure they immediately get

the vital medical coverage they need, " Commissioner Astrue said. " It

is critical that we continue to embrace innovative technologies in

order to improve the services we provide to the public. "