ESA- Medical certificate

RichardWilson_2

Hi,

My doctor has signed me off for 3 months and I am on ESA. I have an ATOS assessment in a week's time. What happens in these assessments? When do I hear back? Do I still continue to receive ESA as I have a valid medical certificate for 3 months regardless of the decison? I have heard that ATOS are horrendous and do not accurately record the situation etc and have heard horror stories. Any help is greatly appreciated.
thanks

HB58

The ATOS assessment will be driven by questions on a computer screen and many of them will seem to have no relation to your condition. You might have your blood pressure taken but do not expect a full physical examination as that will not happen.

It seems that the ATOS HCPs run the gamut from very good to very bad. Many epople feel that the forms produced do not accurately reflect what happened at their assessment. It is possible to have the assesment recorded by ATOS but this has to be organised in advance and, even then, might not take place on the day. You can covertly record yourself but the HCP will stop the assessment if you are found out.

It can take from a couple of weeks to a couple of months to get a decision from DWP. This will over-ride any certificate your doctor might give you. If you are denied ESA you can continue to submit medical certficates and get some payment while you appeal.

only_mee

HB58 wrote: »

but do not expect a full physical examination as that will not happen.

I was offered one "on the couch" or remain seated, i chose the seated one.
Also a friend had a full examination at his ESA appointment.

HB58

only_mee wrote: »

I was offered one "on the couch" or remain seated, i chose the seated one.
Also a friend had a full examination at his ESA appointment.

That does surprise me - thanks for the info.