What the work involves
Consultative examinations are additional examinations or tests requested through the state disability determination services when a claimant's own medical sources do not provide enough evidence. The examiner does the exam and writes a report.
Who the work may fit
This fits physicians who can perform focused exams and write clear, complete reports. Ask about the exam types your state needs.
Questions before you say yes
- Which exams does my state agency need?
- What does the fee schedule cover?
- What must the report contain and how quickly?
- What scheduling and signature rules apply?
- How does the work affect my current practice and coverage?
Your first step
Contact your state's SSA Professional/Medical Relations Officer and ask how to become a consultative examination source in your state.
What can go wrong
Underestimating the reporting requirements. A complete report has defined elements, and some exams must meet specific content rules.
How to get started, step by step
Turn the idea into a specific next action. These are preparation steps, not approval to perform a role.
- Contact the Professional/Medical Relations Officer for your state.
- Ask for the fee schedule and exam types.
- Review the required report content and scheduling rules.
- Confirm licensing and training requirements.
- Check your malpractice coverage for the work.
Where to look and who to ask
Use search terms and contacts that fit this work. Check the actual source and current requirements; these suggestions are not verified openings or Saile inventory.
- Use the SSA Professional/Medical Relations Officer list for your state.
- Ask your state disability determination services about their process.
- Read SSA's guidance on the role of medical professionals.
Scheduling and payment realities
Exam appointments follow the agency's schedule. Ask about volume and no-show handling.
Keep gross pay and taxes separate
For federal employment taxes, the IRS considers control and the relationship, not only the contract label. Self-employed individuals generally pay income and self-employment tax and may need estimated payments. Keep payment and expense records and ask a tax professional about your actual arrangement; this guide does not calculate take-home pay.
IRS: Independent contractor or employee
IRS: Self-employed individuals tax center
Before you say yes: a final checklist
Do not let an unanswered question become an assumed term.
- Do I know the exam types?
- Do I know the fee schedule?
- Can I meet report standards?
- Is coverage confirmed?
- Does my employer allow it?
Work types to compare
Telemedicine
Compare visit type, patient states, schedule and clinical support.
Locum tenens
Compare assignment duties, onboarding, travel and written terms.
Per diem / PRN
Compare minimum commitments, offered shifts and cancellation rules.
Consulting / project work
Compare eligibility, deliverables, conflicts and review deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
How much does this work pay?
This guide does not quote a market rate or promise earnings. Compare a verified written offer, including all required work and expenses.
Does Saile have this work available now?
Check the Saile app for current openings. This educational guide does not claim that a particular role or project is available.
Can I do this alongside my main job?
Check outside-work approval, conflicts, confidentiality and scheduling obligations before accepting.
What should I get in writing?
The work, deliverables, schedule, payment terms, coverage responsibilities, cancellation terms and the steps required before starting.
What should I do next?
Request a sample task without unnecessary patient information, a review policy and an escalation path. Read confidentiality and liability terms before taking access to records.
What the primary sources say
The Social Security Administration says its state agencies may request additional consultative examinations when a claimant's own medical sources do not provide sufficient evidence. These examinations are performed by physicians, osteopaths, psychologists or, in certain circumstances, other health professionals. All consultative examination sources must be currently licensed in the State and have the training and experience to perform the type of examination or test. Fees are set by each State and may vary, and each State agency oversees its own program. Examiners must understand SSA disability programs and be aware of responsibilities including confidentiality, scheduling intervals, report content, the elements of a complete exam and signature requirements.