The person concerned was paid disability benefit from 11 June 1999 to 28 September 1999. She was examined by a medical assessor of the Department on 21 September 1999 in line with normal review procedures. In carrying out an examination the medical assessor reviews the history of the case, considers any fresh medical reports received, and following a clinical examination expresses an opinion as to the person's fitness for work.
The medical assessor who examined the person concerned on 21 September 1999 expressed the opinion that she was capable of work. A deciding officer disallowed her payment from 29 September 1999 on the grounds that she was not incapable of work within the meaning of the Social Welfare legislation.
The person concerned appealed this decision to the social welfare appeals office and in the context of her appeal she was examined by another medical assessor on 10 November 1999 who was also of the opinion that she was capable of work.
An oral hearing of her appeal was heard on 29 March 2000 to afford her the opportunity to present her case personally. On the basis of all the evidence, the appeals officer disallowed her appeal. The decision of an appeals officer is final and conclusive and can only be reviewed in the light of new facts or fresh evidence.
It is open to the person concerned to submit, for consideration by the appeals officer, a report from the orthopaedic consultant referred to in the Deputy's representations along with the result of the proposed MRI scan, when available.