For determinations that consider MI:
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Explain whether MI has occurred.
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Compare the severity of the impairment(s) at the comparison point decision (CPD) with
the current severity of the same impairment(s), discussing changes in the relevant
signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings.
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Explain whether MI relates to the ability to work when the findings demonstrate MI.
See Also:
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DI 28010.000 Medical Improvement and Related Medical Issues - Table of Contents
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DI 28015.000 Relating Medical Improvement to the Ability to Work - Title II and Adult Title XVI
Beneficiaries - Table of Contents
Example of CDR reopening rationale:
DDS reopened the 01/01/2017 CDR determination due to new and material evidence documenting
the beneficiary’s condition at the time of the CDR.
At the CPD, the beneficiary suffered a leg fracture. He was unable to walk without
crutches, and x-rays did not show the expected amount of healing. At that time, we
determined that his impairment met or equaled a medical listing and found him disabled.
During the CDR, the evidence received showed that he continued to have difficulty
walking. We determined MI relating to his ability to work had not occurred.
However, medical evidence received after the CDR determination revealed the beneficiary
had full weight bearing, good range of motion of the lower extremities, and normal
gait during the CDR period. X-rays also showed a well-healed fracture.
By comparing the signs, symptoms and laboratory findings of the beneficiary’s impairments,
and observing the decrease in the severity of his condition since his CPD, we can
conclude that MI has occurred. Since the beneficiary met a listing at the CPD but
no longer meets that listing, the MI relates to the ability to work.