DSD Medical Support Services

— The objective and independent assessment of the impact of health conditions and disabilities on claimants is central to the process of determining entitlement to UC, ESA and a number of smaller benefits. The provider will carry out this assessment and provide information and advice to support the Authority’s decision making processes.

— The key elements of the service will include:

— The consideration of a claimant’s health conditions or disabilities and the impact on their daily life and mobility,

— Assessing individuals against criteria prescribed by the Authority,

— The delivery of Consultations to support the above,

— The gathering and consideration of evidence to support the above including, where necessary, paying appropriate fees for evidence,

— The completion of reports, including advice, to the Authority,

— The referral of assessment reports and any associated evidence to the Authority,

— Interpretation and advice to the authority on technical evidence,

— Follow up liaison with the Authority in relation to assessments, including the provision of relevant health professional expertise as required,

— The administration and management of the service, including scheduling of Consultations, ensuring that they are completed within timescales set down by the Authority,

— The recruitment, training and ongoing support of Health Professionals, including liaison with relevant professional bodies,

— The development of guidance and training in conjunction with the Authority,

— The provision of an enquiry service for individuals being assessed,

— The provision of a quality control regime, including a complaints function,

— The provision of management information as defined by the Authority,

— Initiatives and liaison with relevant organisations to support the provision of evidence,

— Liaison and collaborative working with local and national partners, including disability organisations, health professional bodies and the devolved administrations,