Disability Determination Adjudicator I

State of Delaware•Dover, DE

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Disability Determination Service (DDS) is the state agency responsible for processing Social Security Disability claims under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act. As the sole DDS in Delaware, we handle all disability claims within the state, ensuring timely and accurate decisions and providing quality customer service to Delawareans. In the Adjudicator I position, you will evaluate disability claims and make determinations in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Social Security Disability program. This involves assessing medical evidence to judge the presence, onset, and clinical severity of physical or mental impairments. You will review substantial amounts of evidence to determine claimants' vocational potential, ultimately deciding whether to approve or deny social insurance disability benefits.

Requirements

Possession of a Bachelors degree or higher in Behavioral, Social or Health Science or related field.
Six months experience in analyzing medical conditions in terms of vocational success.
Six months experience in conducting medical and vocational case assessments to include collecting, analyzing and summarizing data in written narrative reports.
Six months experience in applying laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire.

Nice To Haves

A writing sample will be requested at the time of interview.

Responsibilities

Reviews claims and plans case development to adjudicate claims.
Gathers necessary medical, vocational and other evidence by telephone and letter contact to clarify initially submitted information and obtain additional information needed to adjudicate a case.
Reviews and analyzes medical, psychological, psychiatric, social, educational and vocational evidence to determine the severity of medically determinable impairments, justifiable onset date, and credible work-related limitations in accordance with Federal regulations and programmatic mandates.
Requests consultative medical examinations to adjudicate claims and manages scheduling arrangements with medical providers and claimants to ensure that claimants attend examinations.
Researches the affects of disease processes and resulting impact on the ability to perform work-related activities.
Prepares documentation for favorable decisions; prepares written decision rationales and letters to inform claimants of unfavorable decisions made on their disability applications; and explains due-process and appeal rights.
Authorizes payment of medical invoices.
Maintains up-to-date reference materials and manuals necessary to the adjudication process.