Dreading Doctors Visit!

[chrianne]

I am new to this site. I have had arthritis for many years and my doctor has recently decided I also have Fibro, although he hasn't sent me to see a specialist, its just his opinion. I have been on DLA for about 8 years, I was given it indefinitely. A couple of months ago and out of the blue I had a form to reapply for DLA. I heard they are checking everyone who claims so I filled the form in and sent it back, then I got a letter saying they would be writing to my doctor. Then last week I got a letter saying they would be sending a doctor to see me, the very same day the doctor rang to arrange an a visit. He is coming tomorrow and I am dreading it. Even on the phone I am sure he thought I was trying to put him off because I couldn't see him on the day he first suggested! I have been reading loads of posts from other people and I have come to the conclusion that if they send a doctor to see you then they don't believe your claim, so I am expecting to be turned down. I don't know how I will manage without my DLA, there is know way I can work, I am in constant pain, but the thought of going through an appeal is just too stressful and will only make me worse, its just not worth it.

[tessintrouble]

They will be sending a doctor as they probably believe it would be difficult for you to travel for a medical assessment. Just be yourself - don't try and make the house look more tidy than normal (or yourself), make sure you have all your aids visible (walking aids etc) and all your medicines to hand. See if you can have a friend or relative to be with you. Make a list of why you feel unable to work and make sure he/she listens to you. Good luck x

[Hidden]

My friends husband had a home visit ... He was a new claimant and he sailed through the visit and got DLA no problem ... So please try not to worry ... As you have been claiming a while now they probably think it would be more difficult for you to get to an assesment centre so look on it as a positive

VG x

[snowbell]

Sorry, but how is this relevant to the question?xx

[snowbell]

I would tend to agree with relevant comments above! I would be inclined to think positively about the visit. They havent tried to push you into travelling for a medical. Perhaps you are one of those lucky people that doesnt need to worry too much. Its probably a case of going thru motions and just touching base as you have been on benefits for a while and seeing you in flesh so to speak. Follow the tips above and try not to worry xx

[nannyjenno]

I wish they had sent a doctor to visit me at home, I do think it might have done more good than just getting my gp to fill in a form ( she was very unhelpful ). Try not to worry as I know someone who had one of these visits recently and she said the visiting doctor was wonderful, plus gave her lots of advice.

Best wishes...nannyjenno

[chrianne]

Thank you all so much for your supportive comments. The doctor came this morning and luckily my husband managed to book a days holiday so he could be here with me. To be honest the doctor didn't seem too bad, he even suggested a couple of helpful aids I could use! So its just a waiting game now, I'll let you all know what the outcome is.

[cjw064]

Hi Chrianne,

the Dr that is coming out is appointed by the DWP and is called an EMP. Try not to worry he or she is not trying to catch you out the Dr will give a fair unbiased opinion.

I have a document I could send you about EMP visits what to do what not to do etc. if you drop me an email [e-mail] I will gladly send you the document.

Kindest regards,

Liam Carter

Senior Case Manager

My Benefit Claim.

[chrianne]

Just an update. I had a letter to say that there will be no change to the benefit I already receive. Such a relief really, was very worried about losing my car.

[Maceymae]

I had to appeal my claim a few yrs ago when I was actually able to work part time. Yes it was stressful because the first doctor didn't believe me. When the second doctor looked at me he approved it straight away. So don't worry about appealing your case as they think 90% of people will be put off by it.

Unfortunately I can't work at all now and my stamps have run out so not entitled anything but seriously definitely appeal and good luck. X