WHAT TYPE OF EVIDENCE SHOULD MY DOCTOR BE SUPPLYING?
The best report from a doctor is the same sort of report he would give if he were explaining your condition to other physicians. First, he should give a long history. What were the initial symptoms, when did they start, when did you start noticing them, when did they become significant? He should then mention what treatment he gave you and how well it has worked or not worked. He should give the diagnosis and the prognosis. He should explain the basis for the diagnosis and the prognosis; that is, how he made these determinations, what medical tests have been used, what laboratory findings are consistent with your condition. He should also describe what your clinical findings are, that is, what he finds when he examines you. Lastly, he should summarize the impact on your ability to work – how these conditions have affected your ability to function. He should describe whether they limit your ability to sit, stand, and walk, to lift, to carry, to work on a regular eight-hour-day basis. If it is an emotional condition or has emotional components, he should describe the impact of stress, working with others, working under deadlines, your ability to concentrate and deal with the general public or coworkers, to remember instructions and learn a job.
