Effectively Representing SOAR Applicants with DA&A Problems After SSR 13-2p Pam Heine SAMHSA SOAR Technical Assistance Center Policy Research Associates, Inc.

Important Things to Know and Understand Read SSR 13-2-p Definition of Alcoholism, Substance Dependence, and Substance Abuse- DSM-IV Co-occurring Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Understanding the Evidence- learn the details! Stepping Stones to Recovery Training- good time to dust off that binder! Revisit this very informative Webinar!

Three Strategies After SSR 13-2p 1) MATERIALITY: Need to have medical provider say DA&A is not material rather than cannot tell. (Can we get that?) 2) SOBRIETY: Take advantage of periods when the applicant has not been using drugs or alcohol. (Make a timeline) - Careful review of record for doctor’s findings regarding the applicant’s limitations. - If possible, persuade applicant to go into a drug or rehabilitation program. After clean for one month, obtain statement from doctor regarding ability to work base on remaining health problems.

Three Strategies After SSR 13-2p 3) Medical Documentation and Other Evidence -Obtain opinion evidence from acceptable medical sources, and from sources who are not considered “acceptable medical sources”. (see SSR 06-03p) -Educate treating sources about SSA’s DA&A policy. -Emphasize the physical and other mental health impairments (SSR -Always submit the SOAR Medical Summary Report (MSR) where there is evidence of DA&A!