Background

The M-Forms, which were previously used as medical attachments to explain to the State agency the type of consultative examination requested by the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), are obsolete and no longer used. Therefore, certain changes in HALLEX instructions are necessary.

Explanation of Content and Changes

This transmittal revises sections I-2-5-20 (Consultative Examinations and Tests) and I-2-5-22 (Medical Exhibits Folder).

Section I-2-5-20 is revised to delete references to the M- Forms. In addition, in I-2-5-20 A.3, the title of the SSA-1151 and SSA-1152 was changed to reference the forms as HA forms, rather than SSA forms. Use of these forms is optional and they are sent to the State agency for completion by the consultative examination sources only if directed by the ALJ.

Section I-2-5-20B (first Note) was revised to include exercise testing as an example of a diagnostic test that may involve significant risk to the claimant.

In I-2-5-20C, references to “physician or psychologist” were changed to “medical source”. Under the policy in 20 CFR 404.1519g/416.919g, qualified medical sources other than physicians or psychologists may be selected to perform CEs in appropriate cases.

Section I-2-5-22 is revised to include reference to the Form SSA-3820 (Disability Report - Child), the form used for childhood disability cases.

The transmittal also includes a number of editorial revisions.

Date: November 27, 2002