Pip medical and physical examination worries

Hello members,

Having sent off my claim form about 4 weeks ago today I received my appointment for my pip medical. I live just outside Blackpool and they have decided in their wisdom to send me to Lancaster for it, and to add to that it's on my birthday ! I was hoping that someone could help me with what I consider to be a big deal, I don't have a problem in talking to anyone about how my disability affects me, I have psoriasis and the arthritis linked with it in my hands feet knee's and spine and feel OK about talking about it but I absolutely hate being touched! My hands are really painful almost all the time as is my back but I'm worried about them making me do things that I consider I can't without it hurting am I within my rights to refuse? I know some might think it silly but I don't even shake anyone's hand now because it hurts and I really don't want them touching me at all . Will I be doing myself a disservice if I refuse? Please can anyone help?

Hi Coolmum,

The first appointment is usually sent out by computer with no reference to your form and little concern over distance!

You can contact the assessment provider and rearrange the appointment if you wish and also get it moved to somewhere closer to home (if there is such a venue). However, the claimant is allowed to rearrange only once without penalty, so you would have to attend the second appointment.

This will not be a 'medical' in any recognised sense of the word. You might be asked to demonstrate a range of movement in your joints - if this would cause too much pain you can refuse but you must make the reason absolutely clear. You can also make it clear that the assessor can look but not touch.

Thank you for your reply. After posting my question I did ring and asked if I could move it but it was for 6 weeks time and on reflection I just want to get it done with asap. I will make sure to give them as much info as possible and just do what I can, I am going down the path of its on my birthday and that's karma for you!

Hi, Just thought i would add my ten pence in .Hope its ok.The assessment is not a medical, its an interview with questions around your answers on the 'how your disability affects you' they DONT medically examine you, they ask you to do simple movements.

Hope i have helped a little,

take care and good luck