Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
703. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Social Protection how much weight is given to the person's own account of the impact of their condition on their capacity to work in the medical assessment for disability payments. [47285/23]
View answerThe Medical Assessors of my department take into consideration all available information submitted in support of the application;
• Medical report from the treating Doctor(s), which details the diagnosis, results of any tests or investigations, treatment outcomes & complications if any.The medical report also outlines the limitations experienced by the customer and the prognosis.
• A self-reported questionnaire completed by the customer, facilitating them to provide detailed information regarding:
• Their medical and social history.
• Educational and Vocational history.
• Current physical and mental health & how it impacts on activities of daily living, work related activities and general day to day functioning.
• Customers are encouraged to submit where available any additional reports from health care providers involved in their care, these may include medical specialists, but also, for example, psychologist or physical therapist.
In forming opinion, the medical assessor gives careful consideration to all information submitted and exercises clinical judgement in assessing whether customer meets qualifying criteria for the disability benefit scheme.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
