Consider the consistency of the statements regarding the symptoms throughout the case
record. Keep in mind:
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Symptoms may vary with different types and frequency of treatment.
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Frequent attempts to obtain treatment of symptoms may indicate that the symptoms are
intense and persistent.
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Lack of treatment seeking may indicate symptoms are less intense and persistent. For
example, the condition may be effectively treated with over-the-counter medication.
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Lack of treatment may also indicate something else, for example, the individual may
have:
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Reduced or structured activities in order to minimize symptoms;
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Received only periodic treatment or evaluation for prescription refills because the
symptoms reached a plateau;
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Refused to take medications due to side effects that are less tolerable than the symptoms;
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Been unable to access medical services;
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Been advised by a medical source indicating that further treatment would not be beneficial;
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Religious beliefs prohibiting medical treatment;
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Limitations (such as language or mental limitations) preventing him or her from understanding
the appropriate treatment or need for consistent treatment;
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A mental impairment that affects his or her judgment, reality testing, or orientation,
that causes the individual to be unaware that he or she has a disorder that requires
treatment; or
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If the individual is a child, he or she may have disregarded the level and frequency
of treatment needed to maintain or improve functioning because it interferes with
participation in activities typical of other children his or her age without impairments.
IMPORTANT: When necessary, contact the individual and obtain additional information regarding
the lack of treatment. Explain in your rationale how you considered the individual’s
reasons in your evaluation of the individual’s symptoms.
IMPORTANT: Do not find an individual’s symptoms inconsistent with the evidence in the record
without considering possible reasons he or she may not comply with treatment or seek
treatment consistent with the degree of his or her complaints.
NOTE: If prescribed treatment is expected to result in the individual no longer meeting
the medical requirements to be found disabled, and he or she fails to follow prescribed
treatment, see the details in DI 23010.000 regarding failure to follow prescribed treatment.