DLA award declined

tomiward wrote:

I was refused DLA on the grounds of my GP`s report, so I asked for a copy.
I received the report today and it is not very favourable to my claim. The thing is, it has not been completed by my GP but a partner at the practice, who I have never even seen. He uses words like moderate, mild etc, where my own GP told me he would report my sevre pain etc.
Unfortunately my GP has had to return home to Somalia for personal reasons and wont be at the surgery for some time. I am due to see my welfare officer on monday to discuss an apeal. Would appreciate any help and advice in the meantime, Thank`s. Tom.

You can request a copy of your medical records from your surgery, this will give you an understanding of how your previous doctor described your condition and whether they used phrases such as "severe pain".

If they did then this could be submitted as evidence, challenging the GP report that was actually written.

However, if the notes do not contain this level of detail, then you are going to see whether there is alternative evidence supporting your assertions on your pain levels, or you are going to have to establish a relationship with a new GP who will support you.

Bear in mind that as a new GP, you will need them to not just show that you are currently in severe pain, but that it is reasonable to assume that you were at the time of the DLA Decision, as a Tribunal can only look at your condition at that time

Gordon

tomiward wrote:

Thank`s for the advice Gordon. I have made an apointment to see the new GP. Should I inform Him of the situation? It also looks like they have only asked the doctor about certain conditions and not all that I stated on the claim form.
Tom.

If nothing else it will allow you to find out whether they are likely to help you or not.

Gordon