If the DDS has made a favorable initial or reconsideration determination on one claim
and the claimant requests an ALJ or AC hearing on a less favorable determination on
another claim, then the FO contacts ODAR for assistance.
ODAR may return the pending hearing case to the DDS for reopening and reversal of
the less favorable determination, or escalate the conflicting favorable initial or
reconsideration determination to the hearings level. If the DDS discovers a conflict
in decisions by ALJs, forward both cases to the ARC, MOS for coordination with the
ODAR Regional Office.
For the DHU responsibilities in regards to reopenings see “Reopenings” DI 33020.025C.