SC Disability Determination Services
Consultative Examination Provider
Physician
The South Carolina Disability Determination Service (DDS) adjudicates claims for persons filing for disability benefits with the Social Security Administration. The DDS makes every attempt to obtain evidence from the patient’s treating sources first. However, if that evidence is unavailable or insufficient to make a determination, the DDS will arrange for a consultative examination (CE) in order to obtain the information needed. Community physicians and other health professionals are contracted to perform these examinations. To become a provider of Consultative Examinations, a brief application and a site visit by a Medical Relations Officer are required. All providers must possess a medical degree and be licensed in the state of SC. All providers must also have appropriate training and experience to provide the type of examination or test required by the DDS.
The SC DDS purchases several types of basic physical exams:
- General Medical
- Orthopedic
- Neurology
- Otologic
- Ophthalmology
Additional tests may be requested on occasion. All exams require a report that includes features such as review of relevant history, the relevant exam, diagnosis and an assessment of functional abilities as they pertain to the ability to work.
The SC DDS uses an electronic case processing system and can send and receive documents to providers electronically or via conventional mail. The DDS also offers a teledictation service, which greatly reduces the amount of time required in report preparation. Evaluations are conducted in the provider’s office. The exam is conducted at no charge to the claimant, and the provider submits requests for payment directly to the DDS. The DDS has offices in Columbia, Greenville and Charleston; however, Consultative Examinations are needed in all areas of the state.
For more information about becoming a provider, contact:
Diane Hare, State Medical Relations Coordinator
803-896-6799
Allison Toy, Medical Relations Officer in the Columbia office
803-896-6708
Christee Hunt, Medical Relations Officer in the Charleston office
843-953-0335
Natasha Cummings, Medical Relations Officer in the Greenville office
864-282-4056
Current Fee Schedule for Exams
| Comprehensive Medical | $164.99 | |
|---|---|---|
| Neurological | $190.70 | |
| Otologic | $93.12 | |
| Vision | $146.74 | |
| Orthopedic | $190.70 |