File Review Consultation in the Adjudication of Mental Health and Chronic Pain Disability Claims

The role of the psychological file review consultant in assisting disability insurance carriers to adjudicate chronic pain and mental health claims is discussed. The authors advocate an empirical basis for this practice and outline the relevant professional issues and procedural steps to be taken in this consulting role. They examine the role of the consultant in evaluating the quality of assessment, whether empirically evaluated treatments have been applied, and what factors can be used in estimating return to work dates. Specific problems that a file review consultant might encounter and suggested solutions are described as are potential biases and ethical dilemmas that may occur when psychologists take on this emerging consulting role.