Dáil debates

Wednesday, 25 April 2012

1:00 pm

Photo of Joan BurtonJoan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)

Disability allowance is a means tested weekly payment made to people aged between 16 and 66 years who have an injury, disease, physical or mental disability that has continued or may be expected to continue for at least one year and as a result of which the person is substantially restricted in undertaking work that would otherwise be suitable for a person of similar age, experience and qualifications.

Applications for disability allowance are assessed "at desk" on a case by case basis by the Department's medical assessors, all of whom are fully qualified medical practitioners who have training-experience in human disability evaluation. The medical assessor's opinion is based on the medical information furnished as part of the application process. It is important to note that when conducting an assessment, the medical assessor does not dispute the diagnosis of the person's doctor but, rather, taking the viewpoint of an occupational physician, considers the adverse effects that the person's condition has on the person's daily activities and capacity for work. Not alone does the medical assessor have regard to the person's medical condition, but he-she also considers the person's medical history, treatment regime, medication and personal ability-disability profile. Medical assessors also employ evidence based protocols to assist them with their desk assessments. The desk assessment process is much less time consuming than an "in person" process and as medical assessors do not diagnose, treat or give advice, the desk assessment process is considered to be a more efficient use of resources.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

In cases where applicants are notified that they have not satisfied the medical conditions of the scheme, they are advised to submit any further medical evidence relevant to the case which is then reviewed by a medical assessor. In addition, applicants are advised regarding the option of appealing their case to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office. In cases of appeal the medical evidence is reviewed by a different medical assessor.

In certain circumstances a medical assessor may decide to call an applicant for an in-person assessment. However, in most cases the medical evidence furnished in support of the application is such that an in-person assessment is not required.

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