supporting medical evidence

potter wrote:

I was just wondering how i go about getting supporting medical evidence from my GP, should i see my GP or leave it to the DWP to contact them. What is the best to do? Or should i write to my GP for medical evidence,As i suffer from social phobia and find it hard to get to see my doctor. thanks

I assume this is in connection to the ESA50 you have just received.

The DWP are not obliged to contact you GP regarding your claim, although you can ask why they didn't should any Decision not be in your favour.

As you are being transferred from another benefit, the onus lies with the DWP to show you do not meet the requirements for ESA, however, I would not let this stop you collecting whatever evidence is available.

With regard to your GP, they are not obliged to provide you with letters of support or medical reports, however, many GPs do although there may be a charge.

You can also request a copy of your medical records, which should include any letters sent to your GP by Consultants with regard to your condition(s).

The Following FAQs explain how to request your medical records and costs that you might incur.

Requesting your medical records

Charging for medical records

Gordon

potter wrote:

what about writing to my GP would they send written medical evidence through the post to support my claim. thanks

It's not impossible, although I think it unlikely.

I would also be concerned that the request would be "turned around" within sufficient timescales and if your GP is part of a practice, the task may be delegated to another GP, perhaps one who is unaware of your history.

You really need to see your GP to explain why you need their help, however, if this is the only way that you can communicate with them, you may have no other option.

Gordon