ESA Medical

A few random thoughts, cmarie.

Have a friend with you at the medical (a) for moral support (b) to remind you of any points you've forgotten to mention (c) to help you remember what you said so you don't think you're going crazy when the ESA85 report is totally different to your recollection. Get your friend to take plenty of notes!!!

A key concept with ANY activity you talk about is whether you can do it repeatedly, regularly and safely. So think about that before you answer, and phrase your answer according.

Something I wish I'd done more at my medical was mention stuff I can NO LONGER do. You will not be asked about this, so it's good to have thought about examples in advance so you can include them whenever relevant.

The HCP will probably have given your ESA50 only a brief read just before the interview, so don't expect them to have understood your condition. Have a list of the points you want or get across (give a copy to your friend and ask them to support you in getting your case across by timely reminders). It's fine to repeat stuff that's in ESA50. In fact it's essential!

I suppose what I'm saying is that you need to do your best to 'steer' the interview rather than passively answer the questions (which are really NOT designed to elicit the limitations your illness imposes on you - quite the reverse).

Good luck!
Andy.

Just a quick query - I'm expecting to be called in for a medical fairly soon. I know that the HCP may or may not be a doctor. If I have to have a physical examination is it safe to assume that the HCP has been trained in musculo-skeletal examination? I've got some unstable and painful joints and don't relish the prospect of being pulled about by someone who doesn't know what they are doing!

Hi Sheleo

I don't know what training HCPs get but you can read their ESA handbook in the members' area.

They are required to ask your permission before a physical examination or pulling limbs and you should refuse to make any movements if it they are too painful.

Good luck

Derek

Andy,

I can't thank you enough for your kind advise. It is evident that you have thought about this carefully and passed your insight on to me.

The idea of a list of things that I no longer do and re-iterating what I have put on the ESA50 form is great. I will go with that prepared.

Also, having someone take notes had never occurred to me. Gosh, okay, hopefully I can arrange this.

I am going to copy your response and put it in a document in my computer.

1000 thanks.

I just hope I have the presence of mind to be clear and determined to make my points.

Kindest regards,
cmaire

Sheleo:

If anything the HCP does is painful then say "OW! STOP! THAT HURTS!" very clearly. Do not suffer in silence - it will count against you.

I don't think it's a good idea to refuse the physical exam altogether. They do ask your permission (or should) so in agreeing you can warn them which areas or actions risk causing you pain.

Andy.