When a disabled citizen applies for Social Security Disability Benefits, their claim must typically go through a series of hearings and interviews before being approved. In the past, these formal inquests were done face-to-face, leaving many disabled individuals struggling with mobility and transportation issues.
Now, though, there may be a solution to this particular problem. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has been utilizing video conferencing technology to conduct official meetings and hearings with claimants. The system works by having the claimant and SSA officials log into the video conferencing software from their homes or offices.
Experts say the program allows for hearings to be scheduled more timely, cuts both costs and travel time and may lead to quicker decisions being issued.
Data collected by the SSA shows that the new program is also a success, considering that over 150,000 sessions were held online through the program last year alone. Due to this, the agency is working to implement video conferencing in its processes further.
The Social Security Disability Attorneys with Newlin Disability applaud the efforts to create a more efficient application process for disability benefits. The firm is hopeful the technology can be utilized to get those desperately struggling for assistance the care they need and deserve.
