In the 12 state sites and 21 federal sites located in 15 states, overall processing time is 14 days lower in DCM cases than in non-DCM cases. There are even more dramatic results in specific areas. Cases processed in Camden, New Jersey averaged 73 days overall time compared to 147 days in other New Jersey cases. In Marietta, Georgia, all claims are processed in less than 54 days compared to 88 days for cases handled throughout the Atlanta Region. The results are even better for allowances, with almost 42 days saved in Social Security disability claims and 43 days in SSI disability claims.
Early results show claims quality equal to or slightly better than traditional processes.
Allowance rates are also higher, meaning fewer claims are going to the hearings and appeals stages. A new disability process is now being piloted in ten states. Briefly, FPM calls for the elimination of the reconsideration step of the appeals process and the implementation of the single decision-maker in the state disability determination services. It is still too earlier to report on any results, but it is hoped that processing time and quality of decisions will improve. SSA is also looking at improving its delivery of services to disabled individuals who want to return to work.