DDS is responsible for developing medical and vocational evidence to determine if
the claimant is capable of performing SGA. The DDS should establish a cooperative
relationship with the claimant early in the adjudicative process to assist in efficient
case development.
The DDS must:
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review all case documentation;
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recognize and act to resolve questions and discrepancies in work activity;
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obtain relevant evidence from a prior case folder, if indicated. For more information
on determining the need for a prior folder, see DI 20505.010;
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request medical and other information needed to adjudicate the claim;
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make required efforts to get needed evidence;
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take additional action to resolve insufficiencies or inconsistencies. For example,
request CEs, re-contact sources, and ask claimant or others for additional information;
and
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document all efforts to obtain evidence. For more information on documenting the disability
folder, see DI 20503.001E.
IMPORTANT: If the FO does not provide the DFI, DLI, statutory blindness DLI (if applicable),
POD, an SGA finding, or any other technical information necessary to adjudicate the
claim, the DDS must obtain the necessary information before adjudicating the claim.
NOTE: Be alert to the possible need to assist a claimant, particularly one who alleges
a mental impairment.