Field office (FO) interviewers or reviewers must ensure that information documented
on forms that are the FO's responsibility (see DI 11005.018) is as complete and accurate as possible. Discrepancies in information contained
in the file should be resolved before the claim is sent to the DDS (e.g., different
dates last worked shown on the SSA-3368 and SSA-3369, or different onset dates on
the forms).
For
disability initial claims, appeals, or medical continuing disability reviews
conducted in person or by telephone: It is the responsibility of the FO interviewer to obtain an additional third party
contact who knows about the claimant's medical conditions and can help with the claim.
Document the contact information in the remarks section of the SSA-3368/EDCS 3368,
SSA-3441/EDCS 3441, or SSA-454/EDCS 454. When the claimant refuses to provide an additional
third party contact, document the claimant's decision in the remarks section.
For disability claims, appeals, or medical CDRs filed online or submitted by mail,
request an additional third party contact only when contact with the claimant is required
for other development.