Take the following actions when evaluating impairment severity:
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•
Consider and document potential suicide or homicide issues in the overall assessment
of impairment severity;
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•
Refer the claim to the designated authority within the DDS (e.g., the DDS administrator,
or his or her designee);
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•
If the DDS designated authority believes further consultation is necessary to resolve
the issue(s), he or she should contact the Regional Medical Officer (through the appropriate
regional Center for Disability) for assistance. The Regional Medical Officer may contact
the Office of Disability Policy in Baltimore Maryland, if necessary.
For additional adjudication instructions, please see the evaluation criteria on mental
disorders in DI 34001.032 – Mental Disorders and the specific medical evaluation instructions in DI 24515.000 – Specific Medical Evaluation Instructions.