DLA MEDICAL

I had DLA medical a few weeks ago and have only been given low rate care for cooking meals. I have FM/CFS/ME, sciatica and arthritis and really the main thing I was hoping for was Blue Badge. It would mean so much to me and enable me to get nearer to places and do more.
Am I allowed to ask for copy of the doctors report on me? He was quiet and polite but of African origin and I found it difficult to communicate. He fired unrelated questions at me, things NOT on form and he didnt ask stuff I was more expecting which were on form. He was just kind of black and white in his speech and some things I couldnt think of an answer then he went onto the next one. The medical was about 40 mins and I was crying for last 15 mins. I said I would prefer not to have the physical exam when he got out the relex testing thing as any kind of extra moving bending or presseing my muscles triggers a relapse, I dont think he understood this and just wrote something down! Probably a black mark? I am so depressed now as I feel its hopeless, so hard to explain what ME is like. I have had it for 20 years and never claimed before. regards Susan

Hi Susan

Please dont give up on it!! If i was in your position and i wasnt happy with the result i would appeal. I was turned down twice and the third time i decided to appeal. You will get a copy of the medical report in your tribunal papers. It will give you an oppertunity to look through and if you still dont agree go to tribunal. I am not saying that it is not stressful but a victory when you get what you are rightly entitled to. There is loads of info on this site to help you through this and remember you can cancel the hearing right up to the last minute. Good luck!!!
Julie

Hi sammy, I would seek advice with a view to putting an appeal in the CAB or your local concil offices should have welfare rights advisers. Also depending on where you live some councils will issue blue badges upon written evidence from your GP or Consultant. Best Wishes

You dont need to be in receipt of DLA benefits to get a blue badge. It does help of course if you get HR mobility, as the blue badge comes without question. I've had my blue badge now for almost 5 years, but I've only just been awarded HR mobility in the last couple of weeks and that was on an Appeal. Just fill in and return the form from your local council. They will send a form to your GP asking him to verify that you are unable to walk very far (Councils work on the figure of less than 50 metres for some reason). You should hear from them soon after your GP has filled in his form. It would be courteous to see your GP and inform him that you've applied for a blue badge.

Jenny

Hi Sammy,

I get a blue badge before getting HRM as well.

The council send a small factual report to your GP asking for his/her opinion on the distance without severe discomfort, if you use a walking aid, and if the condition is temporary or permanent.

I also feel it would be in your favour to make an appointment with your GP to advise if you are going to apply just in case your GP isnt fully aware or your circumstances.

Good Luck

Kathy x