Understanding Disability and Impairment
/
Understanding Disability and Impairment
By Dr. Vigen Abovian, MD –
Vida Family Practice, Glendale, CA
When health problems affect your ability to work or manage daily life, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what comes next. Our goal is to help you understand the difference between impairment and disability and guide you through the evaluation and recovery process.
What’s the Difference?
An impairment is a medical condition that changes how your body or mind functions—such as back pain, arthritis, depression, or nerve injury.
A disability is how that impairment limits your ability to perform specific tasks or work duties.
Disability doesn’t always mean inability—it means you may need support, recovery time, or adjustments at work.
How Your Doctor Can Help
Diagnose and document medical impairments
Complete disability forms for employers or insurance companies
Conduct Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)
Perform mental health evaluations or provide referrals to neuropsychology specialists
Create safe, individualized return-to-work plans tailored to your condition
Why Documentation Matters
Programs such as Social Security Disability, workers’ compensation, and private disability insurance rely on your doctor’s report to make fair decisions. Clear, accurate medical documentation ensures you receive the benefits, accommodations, or modified duties you deserve.
Are these Evaluation Covered by Insurance?
Disability evaluations are not covered by insurance plans. Each office establishes its own fee schedule for these services.
How We Support You
We offer medical evaluations for both acute and chronic conditions and can complete disability paperwork as needed, guiding you through the process efficiently.
Please contact our office directly for additional details and cost.